Electrifying Laboratories and the Efficiency First Approach

Electrifying Laboratories and the Efficiency First Approach

Electrifying buildings is key to decarbonizing critical spaces; however, this is especially challenging in laboratory buildings. The initial step in decarbonizing a lab should always follow an “energy efficiency first” approach and target a reduction in reheat. Labs typically have two significant thermal loads driven by reheat and lab processes. Our clients are addressing this through the implementation of Aircuity, which provides airflow optimization that adjusts lab airflow in real-time. By optimizing airflow, clients avoid flushing the lab with an excessive amount of air in case of events like spills. Instead, the Aircuity system senses an event, increases airflow to address the IAQ issue, and then lowers ventilation once the air is clean again, saving energy. For most of our clients, an airflow optimization project effectively eliminates around 80% of reheat in most spaces, paving the way for building electrification.

When our clients proceed with electrification and size the new systems for their building, the benefits of addressing energy efficiency first become even more evident. The 30 to 50% reduction in lab energy use creates a different load profile, allowing for new strategies in equipment and infrastructure sizing, leading to significant cost savings. In reviewing customers’ projects, we found that every $1 invested in airflow optimization saves $5 in future electrification costs!

Energy efficiency measures should be implemented before electrifying buildings because they significantly reduce the building’s load. Since labs are typically the most energy-intensive spaces in a customer’s portfolio, there is a significant opportunity to improve energy efficiency. Implementing these measures first will make electrifying buildings easier and less costly.

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