Does your lab have an old ultra-low temperature freezer (ULT) that needs to be replaced, or are you looking to purchase a new one? This fund is designed to assist your lab in purchasing an energy efficient model. 

Ultra-low temperature freezers (ULTs) are essential to research; when operating at -80C many use enough energy to power a single family home. Some new ULTs are significantly more energy efficient, but are also much more expensive. This rebate helps researchers to fund the replacement of inefficient units, or purchase new freezers for essential sample storage.

Rebates are available on a rolling first-come, first-served basis until program funds are exhausted. Each lab may only apply for one rebate in a given funding cycle.

REBATE DETAILS & CONDITONS

  • $3,500 to replace a ULT 10 years or older. The replacement must consume no more than 9.4 kWh/day at -80°C
  • $2,000 for a new energy efficient ULT consuming no more than 9.4 kwh/day at -80°C
  • $1,500 to replace a ULT 10 years or older with a new ULT consuming no more than 21 kwh/day

To qualify for an option above, the new ULT must have capacity for at least 400 two inch boxes. Contact green.labs@ubc.ca to discuss options for smaller models or models consuming 7 kWh/day or less at -80°C.

Based on the above conditions, the program fund for 2024-25 is now exhausted. If you're interested, check back in April 2025 or contact us at green.labs@ubc.ca.