Washington (April 30, 2021) – U.S. Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), joined by Senator Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), today reintroduced the Dynamic Glass Act to make electrochromic glass eligible for federal energy tax credits. This specialized glass transitions between clear and variable tint when driven by an electric signal, providing control over the amount of light and heat entering a building, reducing energy use and costs. Earlier this Congress, Representative Steven Horsford (NV-04) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

 

In the United States, the building sector accounts for approximately 76 percent of electricity use and 40 percent of primary energy use and associated greenhouse gas emissions. Electrochromic glass windows can be programmed to tint automatically in response to sunlight, minimizing glare and heat. These windows help buildings reduce their cooling costs and energy consumption, while maintaining natural light and access to views.

 

“The clean energy future requires innovative solutions to reduce energy consumption, and technologically advanced windows can play a key role in increasing energy efficiency,” said Senator Markey, “The cleanest and cheapest watt of energy is one that is never used, and the Dynamic Glass Act would help lower emissions and energy costs by making electrochromic windows more affordable.”

 

“Dynamic glass is one way to help businesses and homeowners lower their energy bills and benefit from energy tax credits,” said Senator Wicker. “Incentivizing the greater use of dynamic glass would support American manufacturing jobs, including many in Mississippi.”

 

“Providing incentives for the use of dynamic glass is a common-sense solution that will help Coloradans reduce their energy use and costs,” said Senator Bennet. “This innovative technology helps us build a 21st century clean energy economy that competes with China and creates high-paying jobs.”

 

A copy of the legislation can be found HERE.

 

Dynamic glass has been installed in airports, including Boston Logan Airport, to improve traveler experience and reduce terminal energy costs. It has also been used to improve the energy efficiency of corporate offices and educational facilities, including the John Olver Design Building at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

 

“At Massachusetts’ flagship campus, we are devoted to implementing innovative and environmentally sustainable solutions in all of our campus operations, and the Dynamic Glass project at the John Olver Design Building is a great example of that commitment. We applaud Senator Markey for introducing  this legislation, which is just the latest example of his national leadership in addressing the existential challenge of climate change,” said UMass Amherst Chancellor Kumble Subbaswamy.