U.S. Subway restaurants achieve 50% energy savings in R290 retrofit study
In a study coordinated by energy-efficiency-as-a-service (EeaaS) company Budderfly, two Subway restaurants in Connecticut (U.S.) realized average energy savings of 50% by installing U.S. manufacturer Refrigerated Solutions Group (RSG)’s new propane (R290) Capsule Pak ECO refrigeration system for indoor walk-in coolers and freezers.
For the pilot, Budderfly replaced legacy refrigeration systems, made up of multiple motors and controls, with new Capsule Pak ECO systems at two Subway locations in Woodbridge and Southport, Connecticut. At the Subway Woodbridge location, Budderfly installed Capsule Pak ECO systems in the cooler and freezer; at the Southport location, Budderfly replaced the cooler’s existing Capsule Pak with a new R290 Capsule Pak ECO system.
Findings from the pilot show that the Capsule Pak ECO system saved an average of 50% on walk-in refrigeration energy bills, and more when combined with Budderfly’s EeaaS solutions, according to a statement by Budderfly on its website.
Compliant with federal standards
Capsule Pak ECO systems are sustainable and compliant with U.S. Department of Energy, California Air Resources Board, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Sustainable New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) standards, said RSG. The patent-pending design uses efficient component parts and R290 as a natural refrigerant to deliver eco-friendly cooling solutions, the company added.
Additional benefits, said the companies, include the Capsule Pak ECO’s ease of installation and that it requires 20% less space than legacy systems. Its smaller size and reduced weight allow for more workspace and easier handling. In addition, all models are cord-and-plug connected and do not require floor drains, reducing installation and plumbing costs.