Written by Windows That Work: Saving and Creating Energy at Home
Windows are more than just a way to see outside. They’re one of the biggest energy drains and one of the best opportunities to improve efficiency at home.
The right upgrades can keep heat in during winter, block unwanted heat in summer, and even generate electricity.
Here’s what’s out there, from quick fixes to full-on solar upgrades.
Energy-Saving Window Options
1. Insulated Curtains and Blinds
What They Do:
- Thick curtains or honeycomb cellular shades trap air, creating an insulation barrier.
- Savings: Can cut heat loss by up to 25% in winter.
- Cost: Insulated curtains: $50–$200 per window
- Cellular shades: $100–$400 per window
Best For: Renters or budget-friendly upgrades.
2. Window Films
What They Do:
- Thin plastic films applied directly to glass; reduce heat loss in winter or block UV and heat in summer. Savings: Up to 30% less heat gain in summer.
- Cost: DIY kits: $10–$40 per window
- Professional install: $300–$600 for a whole home
- Best For: Apartments and quick seasonal fixes.
3. Storm Windows / Inserts
What They Do:
- Add a second layer of glass or acrylic on the inside or outside of existing windows.
- Savings: Reduce drafts and improve insulation nearly as well as double-pane windows.
- Cost: $200–$500 per window (interior inserts are cheaper).
- Best For: Older homes with single-pane windows.
4. Upgraded Double- or Triple-Pane Windows
What They Do:
- Sealed, gas-filled windows with low-E coatings reflect heat in or out depending on the season.
- Savings: Can lower heating/cooling bills by 10–30%.
- Cost: Double-pane: $600–$1,000 per window
- Triple-pane: $800–$1,500 per window
- Best For: Major renovations or long-term investment.
Energy-Creating Window Options
1. Solar Shades / Screens
What They Do:
- Block heat gain while still allowing natural light.
- Savings: Reduce air conditioning costs by 15–30%.
- Cost: $100–$500 per window.
2. Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Windows
- What They Do: Windows with transparent or semi-transparent solar cells built into the glass.
- Energy: Can generate 20–40 watts per square meter (not enough to power a home, but offsets lighting/charging).
- Cost: Still emerging—roughly $1,000+ per square meter, mostly custom installations.
- Best For: Cutting-edge eco-builds.
3. Window-Mounted Solar Panels
- What They Do: Small portable solar panels designed to sit in sunny windows.
- Energy: Enough to charge phones, laptops, or small appliances.
- Cost: $100–$500 depending on size.
- Best For: Renters and small-space dwellers.
Quick Comparison
| Option | Upfront Cost | Savings / Energy | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insulated Curtains | $50–$200 | ~25% less heat loss | Renters, quick fixes |
| Window Film | $10–$40 (DIY) | 10–30% cooling savings | Apartments |
| Storm Windows/Inserts | $200–$500 | Major draft reduction | Older homes |
| Double/Triple Pane | $600–$1,500 | 10–30% energy bill drop | Long-term homeowners |
| Solar Shades | $100–$500 | 15–30% cooling savings | Sunny climates |
| BIPV Solar Windows | $1,000+/m² | 20–40 watts/m² | High-tech builds |
| Window Solar Panels | $100–$500 | Charges small devices | Renters |
Innovation:
If you’re adventurous (and have the budget), solar-integrated windows are on the horizon. But for now, a portable window panel is the most accessible way to “create” energy at your window.