Energy Programs and Rebates
Laboratories are some of the most energy intensive spaces on Stanford's campus. On average, laboratory buildings consume 3-5 times more energy than office buildings. The Office of Sustainability has a number of resources to help you conserve energy, including a number of free tools and rebates.
Install Timers on Lab Equipment
Laboratory equipment makes up approximately 11% of Stanford’s electricity consumption. One easy way to reduce energy is to turn equipment off when not in use. Often times lab equipment is left on during the day, but could be turned off at night and on weekends. Outlet timers can shut down and start up equipment automatically at set times, cutting off the electricity to equipment when not needed. Outlet timers have shown to reduce equipment energy consumption up to 50%, resulting in energy cost savings for the lab and department. Timers can also reduce the fire hazard risk of having electrical heating equipment on when no one is in the lab.
Ultra Low Temperature Freezers and Equipment Rebates
If you work in a lab that uses cold storage (e.g. refrigerators or freezers) you are undoubtedly already keenly aware that these types of equipment consume a significant amount of energy. But did you know that a standard -80 freezer can consume nearly as much energy as a single-family home? There are a number of ways to optimize performance of your cold storage.
Regular Maintenance
The typical lifespan of an ultra-low-temperature freezer is 12-15 years. Properly maintaining your ULT freezer will increase its useful life, reduce temperature fluctuations, and minimize energy consumption. View resources and how-to guides to help ensure that you are getting the most from your freezer.
"Chill Up" the Set Point
One easy way to reduce the energy consumption of your ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezer is to change the set point from -80 degrees Celsius to -70 degrees Celsius. Chilling up your freezer will save over 1000 kWh and over $100 in energy costs every year. It also prolongs your freezer’s lifespan.
Rebates for Ultra Low Temperature Freezers and Bio-Safety Cabinets
Are you buying a new ultra-low temperature freezer or bio-safety cabinet? Rebates are available for choosing energy efficient models, whether you are replacing an old freezer or purchasing new equipment.
Other Lab Equipment Rebates
Rebates can also be provided for other types of lab equipment, such as incubators and lasers, if proven energy-efficient models are purchased. Contact labenergyrebates@stanford.edu to initiate the process.
Room Temperature Storage
In 2009, Stanford piloted a novel technology that promised to reduce energy consumption, achieve sustainability goals, and optimize laboratory space. Using a proprietary stabilization technology, biological samples that are typically stored frozen can be stored at room temperature. Laboratories can reduce dependency on costly freezers and reduce both energy consumption and their carbon footprint. Moreover, the risk of losing valuable research in an emergency is reduced as biological sample storage no longer relies on electricity. Read a full report of the Room Temperature Biological Sample Storage Pilot.
The Green Labs Program is offering a full rebate for room temperature storage starter kits! If your lab is interested in trying one out, please contact labenergyrebates@stanford.edu. In return, we will ask you to fill out a brief user experience survey.