Evaluating Energy Savings in Ultra-Low Temperature Storage

PD Dr. Ronald Dijkman, Institut für Infektionskrankheiten (IFIK), Universität Bern

External partners: Energie Wasser Bern (EWB), Bau & Raum Universität Bern, Green Lab Network Bern

At research institutes at the University of Bern, numerous ultra‑low temperature freezers run around the clock at −80 °C, consuming substantial amounts of energy. This project systematically examines whether these devices can be operated at −70 °C without compromising the integrity of biological samples. EWB provides high‑precision measurement equipment for this purpose. The energy consumption of the freezers used in the experiment is recorded in real time, while a 30‑month stability study is conducted with representative biological samples (RNA, DNA, viruses, bacteria, and others). If the evidence succeeds, the project will establish a concrete, scalable foundation for more sustainable laboratory practice at the University of Bern.