The energy savings potential of windows in the office buildings sector: State of the art

In recent years glazed envelop has gained popularity in modern building practice throughout the world. The need to energy conservation and sustainable development in buildings is causing a new interest towards such typical envelop building. The construction of appropriate windows is important for reducing the energy use for heating, cooling and lighting in building, especially in office ones whereinternal gains may exceed the transmission losses. In this paper, existing studies on the topic of window opening are highlighted. A general process driving to the effects of the window on energy consumptions is identified, based on studies presented in literature. This approach is used to highlight how fenestration system affects energy consumption, thermal and visual comfort in office buildings. Authors pinpointed the lack of researches on the performance of glazed facades in hot-summer and cold winter zones. Whereas, some studies elaborated in other climates reveal no similarities; therefore it is necessary to find a significant tool to help direct future research.