U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable EnergyFederal Energy Management ProgramCovered Product Category: Commercial Steam Cookers
FEMP provides acquisition guidance across a variety of product categories, including commercial steam cookers, which are an ENERGY STAR®-qualified product category. Federal laws and executive orders mandate that agencies meet these efficiency requirements in all procurement and acquisition actions that are not specifically exempted by law. Most manufacturers display the ENERGY STAR label on complying models. For a model not displaying this label, check the manufacturer's literature to determine if it meets the efficiency requirements outlined by ENERGY STAR. This product category overview covers the following:
Performance Requirements for Federal PurchasesFor the most up-to-date efficiency levels required by ENERGY STAR, look for the ENERGY STAR label or visit the ENERGY STAR Product Specifications website. For more information, contact the FEMP point of contact listed at the bottom of this page. Buying Energy-Efficient Commercial Steam CookersThis purchasing specification applies to pressure and atmospheric (pressureless) commercial steam cookers (also known as steamers). When buying steam cookers through commercial sources, select products that are ENERGY STAR-qualified. Most manufacturers and retailers display the ENERGY STAR logo on complying models. For models not displaying this logo, check the manufacturer's website or operating manual to determine if the cooking energy efficiency and idle energy rate meet ENERGY STAR's Product Specifications. The Federal supply sources for commercial steam cookers are the General Services Administration (GSA) and Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). GSA sells steam cookers through its Multiple Awards Schedules program and online shopping network, GSA Advantage! DLA offers them through the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia and online through DOD EMALL. Note that not all steam cookers sold by GSA and DLA are ENERGY STAR-qualified, and some products that do qualify may not be indicated as such. When buying through these sources, check the models you are considering against the list of qualified products on the ENERGY STAR website. These requirements apply to all forms of procurement, including guide and project specifications; construction, renovation, repair, energy service, operation and maintenance (O&M) contracts; lease agreements; and solicitations for offers. Energy performance requirements should be included in all evaluations of solicitation responses. Buyers shall insert the standard clause from FAR section 52.223-15 into contracts and solicitations that deliver, acquire, furnish, or specify energy-consuming products for use in Federal facilities. Agencies can claim an exception to these requirements through a written finding that no ENERGY STAR-qualified or FEMP-designated product is life-cycle cost effective for a specific application. Buyer TipsFeatures to look for when buying energy-efficient steam cookers include forced convection, vacuum pumps, closed systems, and compartmental insulation. Steam cookers idle approximately 75% of the time, so improved control strategies, such as standby mode, can save substantial amounts of energy and associated energy costs. Connectionless steamers are equipped with a built-in reservoir that eliminates the need for a water supply and drain lines. Water is added and drained manually. The advantage of this design is that steam cannot escape (i.e., through the drain line) from the compartment. Although connectionless steamers are very efficient, they can increase cook times. If fast cook times are not essential, connectionless steamers are a good choice. User TipsImplement an equipment start-up/shut-down schedule. For multiple compartment steamers, turn off unused compartments during slow periods. As most steamers can be preheated within 20 minutes, secondary compartments can be turned off without significantly impacting food service operations. Estimating Energy and Cost SavingsFEMP plans to provide a cost-effectiveness example for this product category in FY 2012. For more information, contact the FEMP point of contact listed at the bottom of this page. ENERGY STAR has Excel-based cost calculators for both electric and gas steam cookers. To modify the utility price, click on "Savings Product Calculator" in the right hand column. Input the product information and rate for electricity or natural gas at your facility. The output section will automatically display results that more accurately reflect your situation. For More InformationFederal supply sources are the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) and Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). GSA sells products through its Multiple Awards Schedules and GSA Advantage! DLA offers products through the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia and DOD EMALL. The following resources are available for additional information: Amanda Sahl Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory provided supporting analysis for this acquisition guidance. |