The PAWS Affordability Working Group strives to increase the accessibility of affordable window upgrades (including, but not limited to, storm windows, cellular shades, and solar screens) and to demonstrate the non-energy benefits (NEBs) of advanced window solutions.
Primary activities:
- Identify and evaluate opportunities to support programs utilizing advanced window solutions and demonstrate their affordability and practicality.
- Collaborate with organizations to develop pilot projects to demonstrate the benefits of affordable window upgrades in various climate zones and building types.
- Develop and disseminate technical resources to educate various audiences on the benefits of advanced windows solutions. Technical resources can include, but are not limited to, leaflets, reports, and webinars.
Resources
The Importance of Window Performance. Windows play a crucial role in regulating indoor temperatures, yet they are often a major source of heat loss or gain. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that windows account for 20-30% of total heat loss in buildings. Poorly performing windows, such as older single-pane models or those with improper […]
Wondering how you can improve your windows to make your home more comfortable and reduce your utility bills? Follow this flowchart to check out your options!
DIY and Renter-Friendly Ideas for Improving Window Performance! Window attachments are products that are installed on the interior or exterior of windows to lower utility costs and improve privacy, noise, comfort, and appearance. Common attachments include curtains and blinds, yet there are several other types of affordable window attachments outlined below that significantly improve energy […]
Unwanted outside noise can come from traffic, airplanes, construction, or even a neighbor’s lawnmowers. Many people believe that noise levels must be quite high to cause damage; however, even low-level noise can cause stress and sleep disruption, as well as higher rates of anxiety and depression. Noise outside a workplace can decrease focus and concentration […]
Window shades and other attachment products can help reduce home energy use at a comparatively low first cost, increasing energy bill affordability for American homeowners and assisting utilities with information about their energy portfolio. However, different shading strategies are required for different climates. This study from Lawrence Berkeley National Lab identifies the most appropriate window […]
Wondering how you can improve your windows to make your home more comfortable and reduce your utility bills? Follow this flowchart to check out your options!
DIY and Renter-Friendly Ideas for Improving Window Performance! Window attachments are products that are installed on the interior or exterior of windows to lower utility costs and improve privacy, noise, comfort, and appearance. Common attachments include curtains and blinds, yet there are several other types of affordable window attachments outlined below that significantly improve energy […]
The Importance of Window Performance. Windows play a crucial role in regulating indoor temperatures, yet they are often a major source of heat loss or gain. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that windows account for 20-30% of total heat loss in buildings. Poorly performing windows, such as older single-pane models or those with improper […]
Unwanted outside noise can come from traffic, airplanes, construction, or even a neighbor’s lawnmowers. Many people believe that noise levels must be quite high to cause damage; however, even low-level noise can cause stress and sleep disruption, as well as higher rates of anxiety and depression. Noise outside a workplace can decrease focus and concentration […]
The PAWS Affordability Working Group will leverage existing resources and conduct research and analysis to demonstrate the benefits of advanced windows solutions and spur market adoption, particularly aimed at reducing energy vulnerability in otherwise energy burdened communities. The group will identify and evaluate opportunities to support utilizing advanced window solutions and demonstrate their affordability and […]
For more information, see the Resources page.
Get Involved
Want to join our Affordability Working Group?