Laboratory Refrigerators: Energy Use and Efficiency Potential

Susan Kulakowski, Stanford University

Objectives:

My poster presentation will share the results of a survey of refrigerators and freezers in two laboratory buildings at Stanford University and the design of an internal rebate program to promote "early retirement" of energy-inefficient units. My objectives are to provide a model for other institutions that might want to undertake a similar survey and/or rebate program and to indicate market potential for energy-efficient product options to refrigeration equipment manufacturers.

Findings:

My presentation will report the quantity and types of refrigerators and freezers in use at two laboratory buildings and their current energy consumption. It will also report estimates of the energy savings and emission reductions that could be obtained by replacing units with the most efficient model of each type. Finally, my poster will present Stanford's plan to promote and fund cost-effective equipment upgrades via an internal rebate program.

Labs21 Connection:

This poster presentation reflects Stanford University's dedication to establishing goals, tracking performance, and sharing results for continuous improvement. It also demonstrates our commitment to employ a range of energy efficiency strategies, measure energy consumption, track emission reductions, and promote energy efficiency efforts.

Biography:

Susan Kulakowski is the Campus Energy Manager for Stanford University, where her primary focus is on finding ways to improve energy and water use efficiency in academic facilities. Prior to returning to Stanford two years ago she was a Senior Project Manager at Energy Solutions, where she worked with such clients as Pacific Gas & Electric Company, the City of Oakland, and the California Board for Energy Efficiency. Ms. Kulakowski has a BA from Stanford and a MS from the Energy and Resources Group at UC Berkeley.