Kentucky restaurant saves $ through updating their lighting & refrigeration

The Challenge

PeeWee’s Place is a full-service restaurant and bar located in Crescent Springs, Kentucky. It was established in 2006 by the owner, Tim Reese. The restaurant was built in 1956 and had never been properly maintained, resulting in the following challenges:

• Energy & Maintenance Costs: The buildings’ existing refrigeration and lighting systems were outdated and inefficient. Being a full-service restaurant and bar, the systems were required to run for long hours each day. This resulted in high energy bills that averaged around $3,000 per month and rapid degradation and failure of the equipment, leading to continuous revamping and maintenance of refrigeration equipment.
• Occupant Comfort & Improved Aesthetics: Tim’s restaurant is the go-to spot for the local community, and Tim prides himself on providing an inviting and friendly atmosphere for customers to come, eat, and drink. The existing lighting in the restaurant was dim, and the color temperature made the space look dull and yellow, resulting in an atmosphere that was not optimal.

The Solution

To reduce maintenance and energy costs, enhance occupant comfort and the aesthetics of the restaurant, Tim Reese partnered with Centrica Business Solutions to complete an energy systems optimization project, which included:

• Interior Lighting Systems: The existing fluorescent and incandescent fixtures were replaced with efficient LED fixtures throughout interior and exterior areas. LED lamps use less energy and last up to five times longer than traditional incandescent and fluorescent lighting technologies. In addition, LEDs have the ability to reach full brightness instantly when turned “on” and can be dimmed, giving them a wide range of versatility for use in restaurants.
• Exterior Lighting Systems: The existing exterior lights were replaced with LED fixtures. LEDs provide several advantages over more commonly used high-pressure sodium and metal halide exterior light sources. Benefits include up to 50 percent less energy use, longer operating lives, lower maintenance costs, enhanced safety and security at night, directed light, and instant start in colder temperatures.
• Refrigeration Systems: The existing walk-in cooler refrigeration motor was replaced with a more efficient Electronically Commutated Motor (ECM). ECMs consume one-third of the energy, operate quietly, have longer operating lives, and require little maintenance when compared to traditional refrigeration motors. ECMs also give off very little heat, resulting in reduced refrigeration usage to maintain the desired temperature.

The Impact

This energy systems optimization project has helped Tim significantly reduce his energy costs and enhance his restaurant's aesthetics. The new LED lamps’ color temperature has transformed the restaurant, giving it the warm and inviting look and feel that Tim was searching for.