This broad strategy encompasses several interdependent sub strategies, including efficient chillers and cooling towers, optimizing the number and size of modular chillers, efficient distribution systems (pumps, piping), water side economizer, evaporative consendor, etc.

Note that these measures are applicable to commercial building in general, although there may be special considerations and opportunities in laboratories.

In the Labs21 Design Guide, see:
- Chiller systems and all sub-topics

These Labs21 Case Studies make special mention of this strategy:
- EPA NVFEL incorporates efficient gas-fired chillers as a retrofit (pg. 3)

In the Labs21 Benchmarking Tool:
- Generate a comparative analysis of cooling energy use metrics (kWh/sf-yr, Peak W/sf, Peak sf/ton)

See the following FEMP Product Energy Efficiency Recommendations:
- Air-cooled chillers
- Water-cooled chillers