SFEER
In the SFEER project (Smart Films and Circular Windows for Energy-Efficient Building Renovations) we address the pressing need for energy-efficient building renovations by developing a circular window renovation concept. By incorporating smart films and circular window solutions, we strive to improve the energy performance, comfort, and sustainability of buildings. Our multidisciplinary team of partners is dedicated to creating innovative and scalable solutions that will contribute to a more sustainable built environment. The project is funded by MOOI, an initiative that supports innovative projects in the field of energy transition and sustainability.
Background
The construction sector accounts for a significant portion of energy consumption and CO2 emissions in Europe and the Netherlands. Windows, in particular, are vulnerable components in buildings when it comes to energy loss. They contribute to both heat loss in winter and excessive heat gain in summer. Many of the current windows in Dutch buildings no longer meet energy performance standards, creating a need for new circular window products that enable fast, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly renovation.
Objectives
The main objective of the SFEER project is to develop a circular window renovation concept suitable for various types of windows, ranging from residential to commercial and public buildings. We aim to achieve an energy savings of 46-48% and reduce CO2 emissions by 5.8 million tons per year in the Dutch built environment. Additionally, we seek to develop a process for reusing old glass, create new smart window films, and produce innovative thermochromic windows.
Features
- Circular Window Renovation Concept: The project develops an innovative concept for renovating windows, focusing on circularity and material reuse.
- Reuse of Old Glass: An efficient process is being developed to dismantle, clean, and recycle old glass, enabling its reuse in new windows.
- Thermochromic Safety Glass: A new thermochromic PVB film is used to laminate reused glass, creating circular safety glazing.
- Smart Retrofit Window Films: The project develops photochromic and thermochromic window films that enable energy and cost savings for heating and cooling buildings.
- Environmental Analysis: Detailed analyses are conducted to assess the environmental impact of the renovation concept and individual products.
- Collaboration: The project involves collaboration among various stakeholders, including film producers, glass companies, construction firms, and building owners.
Performance
At this stage, the project is still in progress, and therefore, there are no specific performance indicators available. However, the project aims to achieve significant advancements in the field of energy-efficient building renovations through the development of circular window solutions.
