Interview with U.S. Energy Manager, Steve DePalo for more information on energy management in the U.S.
“The energy program likes to say that the cheapest and most environmentally friendly kilowatt hour you can use is the one that you don’t use, and that is really where our energy program starts and ends.” - Steve DePalo, McDonald’s U.S. Energy Manager
Striving for greater energy efficiency
Climate change is an important issue, generating growing interest from many sectors of society – from individuals and NGOs, to governments and corporations. The seriousness of this issue means that everyone has a role to play in reducing our impacts, including companies like McDonald’s.
McDonald’s restaurants’ use of electrical energy and natural gas accounts for the bulk of our direct greenhouse gas emissions. More efficient use of these resources helps us save money and reduces our environmental impacts. Within the restaurant, our two key areas of focus are the heating and cooling systems and the cooking appliances, which together account for approximately 80% of a typical restaurant’s energy use.