The Environmental Protection Agency unveiled its first specifications for vending machines to earn the Energy Star label in 2004. 

Energy Star-qualified vending machines are 40 percent more efficient than conventional models and can save building and business owners more than 1,600 kWh/year, or nearly $150 annually on utility bills. More efficient compressors, fan motors and lighting systems keep beverages just as cold and the machine visible while using less energy.

Energy Star estimates that replacing all vending machines with energy-efficient models by 2012 could save building and business owners $100 million dollars per year. The switch would also prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking more than 200,000 cars off the road. 

In 2004, the State University of New York at Buffalo worked with Pepsi to switch 132 vending machines to Energy Star units. As a result, the university saves over 250,000 kWh of electricity and $20,000 each year.

If your beverage contract will soon expire, make Energy Star machines a requirement in your next request for proposals. Sample procurement language is available from Energy Star to help businesses get the equipment they need to reduce energy costs.