The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Washington, D.C., is announcing new requirements for commercial griddles and ovens to earn the Energy Star label. Energy Star labeled griddles and ovens are approximately 10 to 20 percent more energy efficient than standard models.

If all commercial griddles and ovens sold in the United States meet the new specifications, the energy cost savings would grow to more than $700 million per year and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from more than 660,000 vehicles, says the EPA.

The addition of the two new specifications expands the list of equipment available for businesses to help improve the energy efficiency of their kitchens while making significant contributions to a cleaner environment.

To earn the Energy Star label, commercial griddles and ovens must meet minimum cooking efficiency, as well as maximum idle energy rates. Cooking efficiency represents the amount of energy absorbed by the food product compared to the total energy used by the griddle or oven during the cooking process. Idle energy rate represents the energy used by the griddle or oven while it is maintaining or holding at a steady temperature. Both can be purchased as electric or gas models.

Energy Star qualified electric griddles can save businesses about $190 per year, while gas griddles can save an average of $175 per year. Qualified electric ovens can save about $190 per year, while gas ovens can save an average of $360 per year, says the EPA.

Outfitting an entire kitchen with a suite of Energy Star qualified commercial food service equipment could save operators approximately $3,600 each year, says the EPA.

For more information, call (202) 564-7873 ext. 4355, e-mail jones.enesta@epa.gov or visit www.energystar.gov/cfs.