Energy consumption in commercial kitchens – knowledge mapping and elaboration of guidelines

Panel: 8. Dynamics of consumption

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Authors:
Lars Bang-Jensen, Danish Energy Saving Trust, Denmark
Annette Gydesen, Viegand & Maagøe ApS, Denmark
Mads Lindevall Kristiansen, Danish Energy Saving Trust, Denmark

Abstract

Knowledge about the energy consumption and energy saving potential in commercial kitchens in Denmark is rather limited and fragmented. A commercial kitchen is a working area, so aspects such as the working environment and food safety should also be taken into account when looking at the potential for reducing the amount of energy used. Against this background the Danish Energy Saving Trust has carried out a project with the aim of reducing energy consumption in commercial kitchens.

This paper includes a review of existing expertise and knowledge about energy consumption in commercial kitchens in Denmark; an analysis of the distribution of energy consumption by various end-uses; and a description of the potential for reducing the amount of energy used by the most energy consuming equipment. Measures such as technical improvements, interior design aspects, energy efficient purchasing and energy efficient working practices are described. Finally the paper discusses suitable instruments to promote energy efficiency in commercial kitchens.

The paper gathers information from the literature, technical experts, the relevant trade associations and authorities, the suppliers of equipment, and the users and buyers of commercial kitchen equipment. Ongoing dialogue with commercial and trade organisations and users of commercial kitchens has played an important part in the process.

The project resulted in the elaboration of the Trust’s Purchasing Guidelines with a new section on commercial kitchen equipment, and the addition of a section in the Trust's Interior Design Guidelines covering energy efficient interior design of commercial kitchens. Finally in 2010, new Commercial Kitchen Guidelines were developed in partnership with industry associations, societies and users.

The results of the project will be included in the Trust's 2010/2011 campaign activities in a partnership with commercial users of the equipment and relevant trade organisations.