PAWS is pleased to spotlight a recent episode of the ASHRAE Journal Podcast that brings together three leading voices in commercial building performance: Robert Hart, P.E. (Berkeley Lab), Jamie Kono, P.E. (Pacific Northwest National Laboratory), and Laura Van Rietema, P.E. (Taylor Engineers). Their conversation, titled “Windows of Opportunity: Commercial Building Efficiency Upgrades,” explores the transformative potential of window retrofits as a practical and scalable solution for improving energy performance in existing buildings.
Why Windows Matter
In the episode, the speakers discuss how secondary window retrofits—an approach that adds a layer of glazing to existing windows—can offer significant benefits without the disruption or cost of full window replacement. As Robert Hart notes:
“We’re seeing that secondary windows can deliver up to 30% energy savings in some buildings—without the disruption of full window replacement.”
This insight is especially relevant for building owners and operators seeking to improve performance while minimizing tenant disruption and capital investment. The conversation highlights real-world applications, including the retrofit of One Maritime Plaza, where secondary windows were used to enhance thermal comfort and reduce energy use.
Alignment with PAWS Goals
The episode’s themes strongly align with PAWS’s mission to accelerate the adoption of proven technologies that improve building performance, resilience, and occupant comfort. By showcasing scalable retrofit strategies backed by research and field data, the podcast reinforces the value of collaborative innovation across national labs, engineering firms, and industry organizations.
Meet the Speakers
- Jamie Kono, P.E., Building Research Engineer at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). Jamie supports U.S. Department of Energy efforts focused on existing building energy efficiency. Her background includes energy auditing of large commercial buildings and residential energy research, and she plays an active role in ASHRAE standards development.
- Robert Hart, P.E., Principal Scientific Engineering Associate at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL). Robert specializes in energy-efficient windows and attachments, including super windows, shading systems, and vacuum glazing, with a focus on experimental analysis and model development.
- Laura Van Rietema, P.E., Senior Engineer at Taylor Engineers. Laura brings hands-on experience in HVAC system design, commissioning, and energy analysis, with a passion for improving built environments through intentional and efficient engineering.
Listen & Share
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