The U.S. Department of Energy will host a two-day conference on the Highly-Insulating (R-5) Windows and Low-e Storm Windows Volume Purchase Program on September 22 and 23 in Chicago, Ill. The Volume Purchase Program was designed to help buyers of windows and manufacturers of windows by encouraging the growth of a market for the most highly energy-efficient windows available on the market today. The hope is that, by organizing and encouraging demand for these windows, it will be possible for manufacturers to provide them at higher volumes that would be profitable for them. The first day of the workshop consists of two identical, information-packed sessions, one beginning in the morning and one after lunch. There also will be a window exhibit by participants in the Volume Window program. Since the first day of the workshop is intended for builders, contractors, schools, universities, public housing authorities and non-profit organizations, this window exhibit will be an excellent opportunity for window manufacturers to showcase their goods for prospective customers. The smaller format will make the booths much more accessible than would be the case at a larger trade show.

On the second day of the conference, topics covered will include tools for assessing window energy savings, the workings of the Volume Purchase Program and an economic analysis from the point of view of utility companies. As on the first day, the second day will include a window exhibit for the benefit of the very different group of attendees that the second day should draw. The Volume Purchase Program conference will be an excellent chance to learn more about the trends and products that represent the state of the art in energy efficient windows today.

I think this conference will be very worthwhile for attendees and I hope that it will be well attended. A number of companies will likely be in Chicago at that time anyway, for the Door & Hardware Institute (DHI) conference. I’ll be splitting my time between DHI and the Volume Purchase Program. I’d appreciate hearing attendees’ thoughts on both programs. To request more information about the conference or to reserve a spot, please contact Jason Bogovich at jbogovich@energetics.com or 410/953-6257. Space is limited, so I would encourage prospective attendees to respond today.