The EPA has new Energy Star requirements for commercial refrigerators and freezers, which, on average, will be 33% more energy efficient than standard models.
The requirements are effective January 1, 2010, the same date that new federal standards take effect.
Under the new scope of products covered by the Energy Star commercial refrigerators and freezers specification are glass door refrigerators and freezers - typically found in convenience stores, supermarkets, and restaurants.
Glass door models, as of April 1, 2009 can begin to qualify for Energy Star label.
Purchasers of commercial glass door refrigerators and freezers can expect to save up to $800 per refrigerator and $2,500 per freezer over the expected 10-year life of the product.
If all commercial refrigerators and freezers sold in the US meet the new Energy Star specification, said the EPA figures the energy savings would grow to $275 million per year and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those outputted from nearly 400,000 vehicles.
More information on Energy Star qualified commercial products visit http://www.energystar.gov/cfs.
