It is rare that we hear the words “window film” amidst architectural glass or window manufacturers—especially in the form of a suggestion. But the words did come up at the American Architectural Manufacturers Association’s (AAMA) summer meeting in Minneapolis earlier this month. The mention came from Marc LaFrance with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in his address to the association. Though LaFrance’s mention of window film was a small part, it carried significant weight, as he suggested that window film should be next on Energy Star’s agenda.

LaFrance said it would take approximately 12 to 24 months for triple-paned window products to mature; in the meantime, Energy Star could focus on retrofit products, such as film. He also said building retrofits, such as film, offer a viable option at the present, due to affordability and fixed labor costs.

The DOE’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy programs focus on a wide range of topics, including biomass, geothermal, and solar energy technologies, to name a few. In his presentation, LaFrance highlighted the potential effects of products within the building technologies category by reminding those in the fenestration industry that energy freed up in the building sector can be used as electricity for a growing segment of electric and hybrid vehicles.

If the DOE has its way, American homes will be net-zero by 2020. Commercial buildings would follow close behind in 2025. If LaFrance’s has his way, Energy Star will focus on window film as an immediate solution.