KFC has unveiled four of its very first solar energy restaurants in Port Elizabeth powered by Solar Africa.
Making the announcement this week, the company said the idea was sparked by KFC franchisee, AKM Foods which currently owns 34 restaurants across the Eastern Cape. The solar panels were installed in October 2017 and the switch had shown significant cost saving for the business whilst being environmentally responsible.
“We are excited about the introduction of solar and green energy in our stores and are satisfied with the results thus far. Currently only four stores are being piloted, and the plan is to roll out to other stores,” said AKM Foods Principal Operator Nishid Dosa.
AKM Foods has implemented other energy saving initiatives, including LED lights in all stores, wind turbines at 12 of its restaurants, as well as heat pumps, which have led to a 30-40% reduction in water heating costs.
Solar power made sense for the franchisee as majority of the stores have a large square meterage in roof space which is ideal for the introduction of solar.
“Heat pumps were the first layer of energy saving initiatives that we implemented to combat the high cost of energy used to heat water to the standard required in KFC stores. The installation of solar did not disrupt the stores operations and was simple to implement,” Dosa said.
KFC Africa CEO Doug Smart said the brand remained committed to supporting its franchise partners in upholding environmental standards.
“We are very excited about the implementation of this renewable energy solution in our restaurants. This is a big step for the QSR (quick service restaurant) industry and shows our commitment to lessen our carbon footprint within the communities in which we operate,” Smart said.