Earth Day is a moment to recognize the importance of our environment, and in AAMA’s case, what those in the fenestration industry are doing to protect it. Sustainability remains a crucial issue in our work, and AAMA remains committed to the efforts of ENERGY STAR^®. To this end, AAMA collaborates each year with the Environmental Protection Agency, which oversees ENERGY STAR, and research company Ducker Worldwide to receive updated information about the ENERGY STAR and ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Windows Programs.

ENERGY STAR is a voluntary program which recognizes windows, doors and skylights that are highly energy efficient. This year, it was reported that ENERGY STAR market penetration in 2017 showed increases in all categories compared with 2016 data:

• Penetration for windows increased by 1.6 percent
• Penetration for entry doors increased by 1.1 percent
• Penetration for all patio doors, including sliding and hinged, increased by 1.3 percent
• Penetration for skylights increased by 3.2 percent, including an increased mix of glass compared to plastic skylights which are generally not ENERGY STAR rated

Additionally, the share of ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Windows continues to make gains, increasing from 1.4 percent of windows to 1.5 percent.

This most recent ENERGY STAR report, released in November 2018, was conducted in conjunction with the regular AAMA market research. The foundation of AAMA’s studies is primary market research, with fieldwork typically via telephone with industry participants. Direct input for the studies was received from over 50 manufacturers, along with over 100 channel members.

In honor of Earth Day this week, spread the word about this program and its efforts to help consumers identify windows, doors and skylights, as well as other products that save energy. Learn more about ENERGY STAR at aamanet.org/pages/energy.