Updated Labs2Zero Scores and New Features Make Now the Time to Benchmark

One of the strengths of Labs2Zero is that the more the program’s tools are used, the more useful they become! Thanks to the increased usage of the Lab Benchmarking Tool (LBT) over the past few years, I2SL has been able to draw on the latest data to refine the Labs2Zero Scorecard and provide more accurate ratings for lab buildings. That means now is a great time to benchmark a lab building!

The Labs2Zero Energy and Operational Emissions Scores rate buildings on a 1-to-100 percentile basis, so a score of 75 indicates that a building’s performance exceeds that of 75 percent of lab buildings. You can obtain your scores by entering about a dozen data points that you can gather by working with energy managers or other facilities staff. The scores are free to obtain; this Quick-Start Guide tells you everything you need to get started.

Buildings’ new “Version 1” scores will be different from their previous “pilot” scores, and Version 1 scores will be slightly lower on average. However, buildings with high fume hood density, substantial vivarium area, or in very cold climates will typically see increases in their scores. For a limited time, the old pilot scores will be shown on the Building Details page of the LBT for users who wish to make comparisons between the old and new score versions.

Why not make an Earth Month pledge to learn your buildings’ Energy or Operational Emissions Scores? If you’re new to the LBT, you’re in luck: I2SL has added a feature that lets you test drive the LBT even if you have not yet entered any building data. Once you create a free LBT account, you can now instantly create an example building with the click of a button. Use this feature to check out how the scores work and practice using the tool before you enter your own building and utility data. Visit https://lbt.i2sl.org to get started.

Want to learn more about the LBT and other Labs2Zero tools? If you’re planning to attend the Lab Design Conference in May in Orlando, Labs2Zero Program Director Alison Farmer will speak about how to use Labs2Zero to help achieve energy improvements when faced with shrinking budgets. You can use the promo code SPKGSTLDC26 to receive $100 off a conference ticket.

Finally, if you’ve used the LBT to get an Energy or Operational Emissions Score for planning, recognition, or reporting purposes, let I2SL know! Email info@i2sl.org and tell us about your Labs2Zero scoring journey.