ULT Freezer Energy Efficiency Rebates

Ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers are some of the highest energy users in labs on campus, next to fume hoods and autoclaves. They can use the same amount of energy in a year as the average Alberta household.

In order to help the University save energy, emissions, and costs, Energy & Climate Action (E&CA) is offering a rebate to labs to purchase more energy efficient ULT units.

Applying for a rebate

You may apply for a rebate for a newly purchased, energy efficient ULT freezer unit (see below for eligibility and rebate options). Rebate applications will be accepted between April 1, 2025 and May 31, 2025. Successful recipients will be notified by June 30, 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.

Rebate eligibility

• Labs must be University of Alberta labs and any freezers being replaced or purchased must be the property of the University of Alberta.
• New ULT freezers must be ENERGY STAR certified, or meet or exceed the ENERGY STAR guidelines of 0.55 kWh/day/cubic foot.
• Units must have been purchased on or after January 1, 2024.

Please note:

• • Funds are limited. E&CA will evaluate all applications using criteria which may include receipt of all required documents and anticipated energy savings. Among equal applications, rebates will be allocated according to the order in which we have received a complete application including all required documentation.
  • A rebate is not guaranteed until you have received an approval letter from E&CA.

Rebate options

• 1. $4,000 to replace an old ULT with a new, energy efficient ULT.
     ULT freezers purchased in 2012 or earlier are eligible for the replacement rebate.
  2. $2,000 to buy a new, energy efficient ULT.
     If you are not retiring an old ULT, you are eligible for a smaller rebate.
  3. $8,000 to replace three old ULTs with two new, energy efficient ULTs.
     A lab is eligible for (maximum) two rebates if they reduce their total number of freezers.
     Newer ULTs hold a greater volume of samples than older models, sometimes making right-sizing possible.

Approved ULT Freezer Models

The following energy efficient ULT freezers are available through the university's preferred supplier agreement with Fisher Scientific:

• ThermoFisher TSX models (TSX40086A/D(RAK), or equivalent -500, -600, -700 models)

There are additional ENERGY STAR Certified ULT freezers available through other suppliers in Canada that will be considered for the program as well. Visit the ENERGY STAR website or view our summary spreadsheet.

If you have your eye on another model, we may require additional information to determine your rebate eligibility. Freezers must be ENERGY STAR certified or meet the ENERGY STAR guidelines of 0.55 kWh/day/cubic foot.