Controlling Energy Costs in the Restaurant Business

Did You Know?
• Spending on utilities consumes approximately 2.5 percent to 3.4 percent of total restaurant sales, depending on the type of operation (source: National Restaurant Association 2004 Restaurant Industry Operations Report)
• A majority or restaurants updated refrigeration, air conditioners or heating systems in the last two years to conserve energy (source: National Restaurant Association 2006 Restaurant Industry FOrecast)

National Restaurant Association News
• National Restaurant Association Takes On Leadership Role in Environmental Efforts with Roadmap for Sustainable Restaurant Operations, NRA press release, Aug. 17, 2006
• Restaurants Look to Environmentalism and Conservation to Keep Costs Low, NRA Press Release, Aug. 2, 2001
• Don't Waste Your Energy, Restaurants USA, June 2002
• Deconstructing the Energy Crisis, Restaurants USA, April 2001
• You've Got the Power to Cut Energy Costs Through Conservation, Restaurants USA, August 2000

More Resources
• NRA Buyers' Guide, Categories: Energy conservation equipment, energy costs analysts
• Multi-Unit Architects, Engineers & Construction Officers (MAECO), an NRA Executive Study Group

Web Sites
• ENERGY STAR, including focus on restaurants, commercial foodservice equipment, and a rebate/incentive finder
• Foodservice Technology Center. The industry leader in commercial-kitchen energy efficiency and appliance performance testing.
• Consortium for Energy Efficiency, including focus on commercial kitchens
• Electric Foodservice Council. Can help you evaluate your equipment's energy efficiency.
• Duke Energy
• Washington State University Energy Solutions Database

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