about us
Where Expertise Meets Action
The Lab at City Light transforms complex energy challenges into practical solutions through education, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to building a cleaner, more equitable energy future across the Pacific Northwest.
Who we are
The Trusted Resource for Electrification and Efficiency
For over 25 years, The Lab has served as the Pacific Northwest’s credible resource for building professionals navigating the evolving landscape of electrification and energy efficiency.
What began as Seattle City Light’s Lighting Design Lab has grown into a comprehensive resource hub addressing the full spectrum of clean energy adoption—from HVAC systems and building envelopes to transportation electrification and grid-connected innovation.
We exist at the critical intersection where policy meets practice. While regulations and incentives shape what’s required, we provide the technical expertise, hands-on training, and practical resources that make implementation possible.
Our role is to translate complexity into clarity, ensuring that contractors, designers, building operators, and policymakers have the knowledge and tools they need to succeed.
our mission
Driving Real-World Electrification
We accelerate the adoption of electrification and energy efficiency by equipping professionals and stakeholders with expert education, accessible resources, and meaningful industry connections. Through collaboration and innovation, we make clean energy solutions practical, achievable, and equitable for every building, fleet, and community we serve.
our approach
What makes us different
Technical Knowledge That Works
in the Field
We don’t just teach theory—we provide guidance grounded in real-world application. Our training and resources reflect the actual challenges professionals face on job sites, in design studios, and in facility management offices. Every recommendation we make has been tested, proven, and refined through decades of industry experience.
Connecting the
Entire Ecosystem
Electrification succeeds when contractors, designers, operators, and policymakers work from a shared understanding. We serve all stakeholders in the clean energy transition, creating connections across disciplines and ensuring that technical solutions align with regulatory requirements, business realities, and community needs.
Building an Inclusive
Energy Future
Access to clean energy knowledge and opportunity should never be limited by background, geography, or resources. We prioritize workforce development programs, barrier-free education, and partnerships that expand participation across underserved communities. Equity isn’t an afterthought—it’s embedded in how we design programs, deliver training, and measure success.
Backed by Seattle City Light,
Built for the Region
As a program of Seattle City Light, we carry the credibility and resources of one of the nation’s leading public utilities. But our mission extends far beyond Seattle’s borders. We serve professionals and communities throughout Washington and the broader Pacific Northwest, providing objective, research-backed guidance that advances regional electrification goals.
how we work
Collaboration, Education, Innovation
The Lab operates through three interconnected approaches that drive lasting impact.
Expert Training & Education
Comprehensive learning opportunities ranging from introductory webinars to advanced technical workshops, all designed to build confidence and competence in electrification implementation.
Resource Development & Sharing
Curated toolkits, technical guides, research reports, and case studies that provide on-demand support for professionals at every stage of project planning and execution.
Industry Collaboration & Networking
Convening stakeholders, facilitating knowledge exchange, and building partnerships that accelerate innovation and align efforts across the electrification ecosystem.
PARTNERSHIP & COLLABORATION
Stronger Together
The Lab’s impact is amplified through strategic partnerships with utilities, industry associations, workforce development organizations, technology providers, and community groups throughout the Pacific Northwest. These collaborations allow us to:
- Expand the geographic reach of our training and resources
- Stay connected to emerging technologies and evolving best practices
- Ensure our programs reflect the real-world needs of diverse stakeholders
- Co-create solutions that serve the entire region’s clean energy goals
We actively seek partnerships with organizations that share our commitment to practical expertise, equitable access, and measurable impact.
PARTNERSHIP & COLLABORATION
The People Behind The Lab
The Lab is powered by a team of energy efficiency experts, technical specialists, educators, and program managers with deep roots in the Pacific Northwest building industry. Our staff brings decades of combined experience in lighting design, HVAC systems, building science, transportation electrification, and workforce development.
We pride ourselves on staying current with the latest technologies, code requirements, and implementation strategies—ensuring that the guidance we provide reflects today’s realities and tomorrow’s opportunities.
Let’s Build a Cleaner Energy Future Together
Whether you’re looking for technical training, implementation resources, or partnership opportunities, The Lab is here to support your electrification goals.
