Min/Max: The Relationship Between Energy, Carbon and T/RH Parameters in Collecting Institutions is a national research project funded by an Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) National Leadership grant. It is led by Environment & Culture Partners (ECP) in partnership with NBI and with support from A2 Efficiency, and with guidance from cross-sector advisors. Min/Max uses a data-driven approach and real-world testing to identify how broadening from the common practice of strict T/RH parameters of 70°F/ 50% RH (21°C/ 50% RH) can save money and reduce carbon emissions, while maintaining standards of care for museum collections. Most museum HVAC systems are not designed to maintain the strict environmental conditions of 70°F +/- 2°F and 50% RH +/- 5% and cannot reliably meet these criteria. Meeting these strict demands uses more energy than necessary, sometimes significantly, while conditions in collections spaces often fall outside the setpoint ranges. 

Complete results of the research (expected in early 2027) will provide museum collections and facilities staff with a free suite of tools to facilitate decision-making about changes to practice, and real-world field-testing results from eight art museums across a variety of climate regions of the U.S. This research benefits museums and their materials, and the long-term health and safety of people and communities.  

This project was inspired by the findings from Culture Over Carbon, the first in-depth review of energy use patterns in U.S. cultural institutions, which have unique energy challenges not often encountered in other public buildings such as high occupancy levels, a blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, large open interiors, and strict operational temperature and humidity requirements.