Cool Retrofit Solutions in Refrigerated Display Cases

Panel: Strategies for Appliances, Lighting, Electronics, and Miscellaneous End–Uses

Authors:
Devin Rauss, Southern California Edison
Scott Mitchell, Southern California Edison
Ramin Faramarzi, Southern California Edison

Abstract

Supermarkets consume roughly 50 kWh per square foot in electricity-one of the highest energy use intensities of all building types. Refrigeration accounts for nearly 50% of electrical energy use and 30-40% of that is utilized by refrigerated display cases. Historically, display case manufacturers have not invested much in energy-efficiency improvements of their products. This has primarily been due to the lack of energy efficiency standards and the fact that electricity accounts for a small portion, only 2%, of total supermarket operating costs. (SCE RTTC 2007)

Retrofitting display cases can significantly improve the energy use of refrigeration equipment. This paper presents laboratory tests results of several energy-efficient retrofit technologies for refrigerated reach-in display cases. These measures are intended to impact energy use of display cases due to improved lighting, the use of anti-fog film, and reduced infiltration from improved door gaskets.