Smart windows for energy efficiency of buildings

The increasing attention to issues of visual comfort and energy efficiency that characterize the architecture of the XXI century led to the development of innovative, high performance dynamic glazing systems, aimed not only at reducing heat loss, but also at controlling incoming solar radiation, in order to maximize solar gain in winter and minimize it in summer, as well as ensuring the best natural lighting conditions with no glare. Such systems, called smart windows, enable varying the amount of heat (SHGC) and light (VLT) that penetrate through the glass surfaces as needed, while maintaining outwards vision. These new dynamic windows, the electrochromic ones in particular, are proving to be more effective than traditional static systems - lowe selective glazing and automatic shading devices - at reducing energy consumption for lighting and air conditioning and providing greater comfort to users. The article offers an analysis of the different types of dynamic glazing on the market, with both passive and active control, illustrating their potential uses and the benefits achieved in terms of energy efficiency, environmental comfort, and architectural quality in both new constructions and in existing buildings requalification.