Meet Energy Efficiency Laws with Window Film

Larger cities and metropolitan areas are enforcing new energy efficiency laws to reduce the carbon footprint of commercial buildings. For example, Clean Energy DC is the District of Columbia’s plan to reduce emissions by 56% in 2032. Additionally, the Climate Action Plan is Montgomery County’s strategic plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions 80% by 2027 and 100% by 2035. These acts include guidelines requiring building owners to increase efficiency further than the typical methods. Non-compliance with these regulations will result in property managers facing incredibly large fines. Although building envelope upgrades are often overlooked, window film can help buildings meet these new guidelines.

Importance of Energy Efficiency Laws in DC


The District of Columbia has one of the highest greenhouse gas emissions per capita in the U.S. It’s higher than several other major cities, including Boston, Seattle, LA, San Francisco, and New York City. The District’s goal is to significantly decrease emissions by enforcing stricter energy efficiency laws. These rules pertain to several sectors, including transportation and buildings.

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Building Energy Performance Standards


Created as part of the Clean Energy DC Act, the Building Energy Performance Standards are requirements every building in the District has to meet. First starting on January 1, 2021, these guidelines state buildings must reach a minimum level of energy performance. The standards vary by property type and apply to offices and other commercial buildings. For buildings to meet these regulations, they will have to go beyond making improvements to the HVAC system. Window film can unlock more energy savings for buildings to ensure they meet these standards.

How Window Film Conserves Energy


Applying window film to a building’s facade is one way to help fulfill the new energy efficiency laws in DC. Windows are a major culprit of energy loss, which is why window film can greatly increase the efficiency of a building. When installing window film, it’s important to do so before improving the HVAC system. With greater efficiency, you may find yourself needing a smaller HVAC system than originally planned.

Furthermore, according to the Department of Energy, windows make up 30% of cooling costs in commercial buildings. Window film reflects solar heat to keep the building cooler in the summer and reduces heat loss to retain warmth during the winter. As a result, this leads to year-round savings and a smaller carbon footprint.

Window Film Benefits



Rejects light and heat, blocking up to 99% of UV rays


Decreases emissions and carbon footprint


More affordable than replacing windows


Reduces load on HVAC system to boost efficiency


Non-disruptive and little downtime for installation


3M Window Films come with a 15-year warranty


Contributes to
LEED points


Cuts heating
and cooling costs


Helps meet energy
efficiency regulations

Help Your Building Meet Energy Efficiency Laws


If you’re concerned about your building’s energy efficiency, our window film experts would love to answer any questions you have. We can help you decide on the best solution that will ensure your building is environmentally friendly. So reach out today for more information or a free consultation.

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