US Secretary of Energy Spencer Abraham recently announced a twenty-year plan—developed in partnership with building products manufacturers—to make facilities more energy efficient, comfortable, and healthier for their occupants.
The Building Envelope Technology Roadmap will guide cooperation among researchers, industry, and federal and state government to address industry trends such as increased competition, consumer demands for lower cost and lower maintenance facilities, reduced environmental impact, technological developments, and market barriers to new innovations.
By 2020, the industry envisions building envelopes that are net producers of energy, with movable walls and rooms that adapt to changing needs and environmental factors. The 2020 building envelope’s intelligent features will adjust the interior climate based on the weather and provide naturally derived lighting and ventilation, enhancing overall comfort and occupant health. Facilities and their construction will be resource-efficient, and increased durability will reduce maintenance effort and cost.
For more information, contact DOE.
