Freezer Challenge
The 2025 Freezer Challenge has ended. If you would like to be notified when registration opens for the 2026 Challenge, please .
The Freezer Challenge encourages labs across campus to adopt cold storage unit best practices, helping tackle one of the biggest energy consumption challenges in research spaces.
This global initiative encourages labs to improve energy efficiency, reduce risks, lower costs and uphold U of A’s commitment toward sustainability. Organized by and the , the challenge is a free and impactful way for thousands of labs to unite in advancing sustainability in science.
Thank you to the labs who participated in 2025!
Thanks to the labs who participated in 2025, the University is saving approximately 55.1 kWh/day. That's about as much electricity as two small households!
In 2025, the ß÷ßäÉçÇø ranked 23rd among all academic institutions in the Freezer Challenge.
ULT freezer rebate
Energy & Climate Action offers a ULT Freezer Rebate for upgrading older ULT freezers to newer, more energy efficient models. Apply for a ULT Freezer Rebate and get some money for upgrading your old ULT, while also contributing points toward the Freezer Challenge!
If you have any questions about the Freezer Challenge, contact Energy + Climate Action at emso@ualberta.ca
Go beyond the freezer challenge
Shut the Sash
Fume hoods are one of the most energy intensive pieces of equipment on campus. Save energy and prevent accidents by lowering the sash when running an experiment and shutting it when you’ve finished.
Green Spaces Certification
Labs use considerable amounts of water, energy and other resources, so even small actions lead to big benefits. Get your lab certified for actions you may already be doing + discover more ways to conserve and be safe.
Want to get a head start?
Review the list of actions . The 2026 Challenge will begin in January, but labs can retroactively report most actions to August 1, 2025.