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TURN IT ON COMMERCIAL KITCHENS Promising economics Consuming five to seven times more energy per square foot than other commercial buildings, restaurants are energy-inten- sive businesses, with lighting accounting for 13 percent of total energy expenses. In addition to offering better light quality, LED technology can cut energy consumption in half compared to traditional lighting. And, because Cree LED lighting is covered under a 10-year limited warranty and doesn't need to be re-lamped like other solutions, com- mercial kitchens can save on their maintenance expenses as well. Gone are the days of frequently having to call in electrical service companies to change lights. Additionally, LED technology is inherently smarter than con- ventional light sources, offering increased opportunities for control integration to manage usage. With integrated occupancy sensors, A&W; attributes Cree LED lighting to an estimated 56 percent energy sav- ings, helping generate $800 cost savings per month on the electric bill. Sustainable brand experience Many commercial restaurants also look to LED lighting as a way to build their commit- ment to sustainability. On track to be the frst LEED (Lead- ership in Energy Environmental Design) certifed McDonald's Restaurant in North Carolina, a new, more energy-effcient McDonald's in Cary, N.C., is using LED lighting from Cree to meet both business and customer needs. Featuring 97 percent LED lighting, the McDonald's uses a fully automated, intelligent light system that combines high-efficiency Cree LED lighting and daylighting from Solatube skylights with a photo sensor to maintain the proper light levels on work surfaces. When compared to the standard lighting packages, this store consumes 78 percent less electric- ity for lighting. "My efforts in building this store are two-fold – to be economically sound with energy-effcient methods and, at the same time, to provide a modern space for the enjoyment of customers," says Ric Richards, franchise owner and operator. "Cree's LED lighting products are an important element in our ability to reach our energy effciency targets." Why wait? Leading manufacturers continue to improve LED technology and design, al- lowing managers to purchase LED lighting solutions with attractive economics and 10-year warranties, providing ease of mind when making the decision and having confdence in the products they are installing. In fact, today, the upfront investment to switch to LED light- ing is lower than one might expect and payback can be achieved in as little as one year. Many incentives and rebates also are available through utilities and government programs, accelerating payback and savings. A&W;, for example, leveraged its statewide energy efficiency program, Focus on Energy, to secure rebates for their Cree LED lighting. Whether for better working environments, or the savings, LED lighting has proven to be the best choice for new and existing spac- es. The economics of LED lighting solutions have reached the point where waiting for existing technology to burn out actually decreases the potential lifetime savings. Why wait? CK John Casadonte is a vertical marketing manager at Cree, an industry leader in LED lighting for interior and exterior applications. He currently supports Cree's Education initiative to help sustainability efforts and achieve LEED qualifcation for the many institutions nationwide. " My efforts in building this store are two-fold – to be economically sound with energy-effcient methods and, at the same time, to provide a modern space for the enjoyment of customers." – Ric Richards, McDonald's franchise owner and operator, Cary, N.C. 88 COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION — MARCH : APRIL 2016