Verified results: Dynamic glass significantly reduces cooling demand in buildings

Verified results from the EU-funded Switch2Save project show that dynamic – or electrochromic – glass can improve energy efficiency in buildings. In two European buildings, cooling demand was reduced by up to 80% – a clear indication of how electrochromic glazing technology, such as ConverLight® from ChromoGenics, can contribute to both climate goals and lower operating costs.

Buildings account for over 40% of global energy consumption and a third of global greenhouse gas emissions. In Europe, three out of four buildings remain energy-inefficient – underlining the urgent need for smarter, more sustainable solutions. As part of the EU-funded Switch2Save project, ConverLight® from ChromoGenics was tested in real-world conditions, showing strong potential to enhance building energy efficiency.

A Key to Meeting EU Climate Goals

As the EU transitions toward its “zero-emission vision” by 2030, innovative solutions will be essential to reducing the climate impact of buildings. Retrofitting existing properties with dynamic glass is a key step toward sustainability – helping property owners meet ESG targets and improve energy ratings for certifications such as BREEAM and LEED.

Real-World Testing in Sweden and Greece

Two buildings – a hospital in Greece and an office in Sweden – were selected for a two-year study comparing energy use before and after the installation of ConverLight®. At Vasakronan’s Sleipner office in Uppsala, Sweden, peak cooling demand was reduced by up to 80% during certain periods – clearly demonstrating the potential for energy savings under high solar loads.
At Nikaia Hospital in Greece, ConverLight® lowered indoor temperatures by up to 8°C and reduced cooling energy use by 28% – significantly improving comfort for patients.

Simulations Confirm Energy Savings

Scientific simulations conducted by the Spanish research organization Leitat show that dynamic glass can reduce total annual energy use in buildings by 25–35%, depending on the European climate in which it is installed. Real-world results from Sweden even exceeded the simulations – further confirming the significant impact dynamic glazing can have on both energy consumption and operating costs.

Business value and payback time

For property owners, improving energy efficiency is not only about meeting climate targets – it’s also about profitability. The energy savings demonstrated by ConverLight® in both Sweden and Greece significantly reduce operational costs by lowering cooling demand.

In climates with high cooling costs, the payback time can be short – especially in buildings with large glass façades.

How ConverLight® Works

ConverLight® is an electrochromic glazing solution that automatically adjusts its tint based on the intensity of sunlight. This reduces the need for both heating and cooling. The system integrates easily with building automation systems for optimal energy performance and can even be powered by solar energy – making it the market’s leading self-sufficient solution for sustainable building design.

ChromoGenics’ ISO-certified product ConverLight® proves that reducing energy consumption and CO₂ emissions in buildings is not just a possibility – it’s already a reality.

Read the full case study at ConverLight.com