The Department of Energy has finalized new energy efficiency standards for stoves, with a minimal impact on gas models but a significant impact on electric stoves, which will need to comply by 2028. The changes are projected to lower Americans' utility bills by $1.6 billion over 30 years and reduce carbon-dioxide emissions by almost 4 million metric tons. The regulations were prompted by concerns over gas stoves' potential health hazards, but the final standards are less stringent than initially proposed. New regulations for other appliances are also in the pipeline.
Jon Taffer, host of "Bar Rescue," warns that the restaurant industry is facing a new challenge as the Biden administration considers a switch from gas to electric stoves due to environmental concerns. Taffer emphasizes the economic and culinary impact of this potential regulatory change, which could require massive investments from struggling restaurants already grappling with inflation and labor shortages. He advocates for a "smaller footprint" business model to manage costs in today's challenging environment.
Local restaurant owners in Palo Alto, California are criticizing the city's decision to grant celebrity chef José Andrés an exception to a gas stove ban for his new restaurant. The city allowed gas service for Andrés' project, but insisted all other new and remodeled projects would have to comply with electric requirements. Restaurant owners are concerned about the cost and efficiency of electric stoves, and believe that California's policies on green energy need to be more carefully considered.
