NET ZERO - ENERGY EFFICIENCY

1. Energy managers should have already plucked the low-lying fruit; what should be the focus now to reduce carbon emissions through improved efficiency?

RATIONAL's multi-functional cooking appliances significantly reduce the energy and resource footprint in hospital kitchens. The iCombi Pro combi-steamer and iVario Pro advanced bratt pan feature cutting-edge technology, including intelligent sensors and precise temperature control, achieving exceptional energy efficiency—reducing electricity consumption by up to 34% and water usage by 53% compared to conventional appliances.
For energy managers looking to further cut emissions, the iCareSystem AutoDose for iCombi Pro units offers an innovative cleaning solution that aligns with sustainability goals. Made from 100% recyclable polypropylene, the system ensures precise chemical dosing, reducing plastic waste by up to 50% and cutting packaging volume by 80% compared to traditional cleaner tabs. These advancements contribute to a more sustainable and cost-effective kitchen environment.

2. Should digital tools and AI be used to better effect for metering and measuring energy consumption?

The digital energy usage dashboard feature from the ConnectedCooking digital network solution provides users with a comprehensive overview of the energy consumption of the iCombi Pro and its predecessor, the SelfCookingCenter, enabling them to identify potential savings. The clear, and customisable dashboard enables users to monitor the calculated energy usage for the current month by cooking process, combi-steamer, or restaurant.
Users can also analyse the duration of the loading process and determine if unnecessary door openings have caused energy loss to discover how efficient loading can save energy. By identifying energy load peaks in food production and adjusting processes within the hospital kitchen they will help reduce these peaks and lower overall electricity costs.

3. Can better space management lead to improved energy efficiency?

Multifunctional equipment takes up less space in the kitchen than a bank of separate appliances. This means a smaller kitchen footprint, savings on extraction systems and overall running costs. For example, say a kitchen is equipped with a kettle, boiling pan, deep-fat fryer, pressure cooker, convection oven and a hob. Replacing all these appliances with an iCombi Pro and iVario will save up to 40% in space – and together the pair will cover 95% or more of all conventional cooking applications.

4. What technologies/approaches would you recommend as having the most potential to reduce emissions across the NHS estate?

Upgrade to modern, intelligent cooking systems with proven energy efficiency. All RATIONAL iCombi Pro models are ENERGY STAR certified, ensuring that RATIONAL customers benefit from equipment that surpasses stringent energy-saving targets. With improved insulation and advanced door glass coating, these ovens achieve up to 30% greater energy efficiency than non-certified models, according to EPA estimates. Additionally, RATIONAL iCombi Pro steamers are the first in the Combi Oven category to be listed on the UK's Energy Technology List (ETL), underscoring RATIONAL's commitment to sustainability and helping customers make informed, energy-efficient choices.

If you'd like to know more about RATIONAL products or speak to our advisors

bit.ly/3bLLg6Z

In these challenging times…

The Staff Canteen team are taking a different approach to keeping our website independent and delivering content free from commercial influence. Our Editorial team have a critical role to play in informing and supporting our audience in a balanced way. We would never put up a paywall – The Staff Canteen is open to all and we want to keep bringing you the content you want; more from younger chefs, more on mental health, more tips and industry knowledge, more recipes and more videos. We need your support right now, more than ever, to keep The Staff Canteen active. Without your financial contributions this would not be possible.

Over the last 16 years, The Staff Canteen has built what has become the go-to platform for chefs and hospitality professionals. As members and visitors, your daily support has made The Staff Canteen what it is today. Our features and videos from the world’s biggest name chefs are something we are proud of. We have over 560,000 followers across Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and other social channels, each connecting with chefs across the world. Our editorial and social media team are creating and delivering engaging content every day, to support you and the whole sector - we want to do more for you.

A single coffee is more than £2, a beer is £4.50 and a large glass of wine can be £6 or more.

Support The Staff Canteen from as little as £1 today. Thank you.