The NSG Group will increase its production of Low Emissivity (Low-E) architectural glass by upgrading its Chiba plant in Japan.

The group will enhance the production capacity of its energy-saving Low-E glass by installing an advanced sputtering coating line.

The line is scheduled to begin operation in the quarter of April-June 2026, with mass production starting in the following quarter.

It will help meet the growing demand driven by Japan’s push for carbon neutrality and stricter energy efficiency standards in buildings.

NSG said: “Up until now, in Japan, we have procured most of the Low-E glass from outside the group to produce Low-E double-glazing glass.

“In light of the expected continued high demand going forward, and the expectation of further expansion of adoption in non-residential fields such as commercial buildings and the market for remodelling existing buildings, we have decided to invest in full-scale domestic production.”

Low-E glass is an energy-saving glass that has a transparent metal film coated on the glass surface to prevent heat from penetrating inside and outside the building.

The penetration rate of Low-E double-glazed glass in newly built homes in Japan is increasing year by year.

As of 2023, it is expected to reach 85.0% for detached houses and 62.8% for apartment buildings (survey by the Flat Glass Association, area basis).