Energy-efficient coffee equipment: sustainability meets innovation

In today’s professional foodservice industry, energy efficiency is no longer optional, it’s essential. Energy-efficient professional espresso coffee machines are one of the most effective tools cafés can use to reduce operational costs while improving their environmental impact. 

But what exactly do we mean by energy-efficient coffee equipment? These are machines designed to optimize the use of thermal and electrical energy, minimizing waste during standby, pre-infusion, brewing and cleaning phases. This is achieved through smart components, next-generation insulating materials and electronic systems capable of monitoring and self-regulating consumption. 

In recent years, growing regulatory pressure on energy use has accelerated the development and adoption of more sustainable technologies across the HoReCa sector. At the same time, consumer expectations have shifted: according to a study by World Coffee Portal, 67% of respondents believe it is “important or very important” that a coffee shop adopts sustainable practices, including the equipment used in preparation (World Coffee Portal, 2024).

In response, operators are moving from a “purchase price” logic to a total cost of ownership (TCO) model, where energy consumption becomes a key variable in calculating ROI. 

Finally, in a global context where Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) practices have become expected standards among stakeholders, investors and international chains, energy-efficient equipment strengthens both the credibility and the brand positioning of independent cafés and multi-site operators. 

Technologies behind energy-efficient coffee machines 

The new generation of professional coffee machines is engineered to deliver high performance while minimizing energy use. 

One of the most widespread innovations is the automatic standby system, which selectively shuts off brewing groups or puts the machine into energy-saving mode during idle times. This helps prevent energy waste between brews without compromising service readiness. 

Another key feature is the rapid-heating boiler, often built with direct-exchange or multi-boiler technology. These systems allow for fast and stable temperature control, reducing thermal fluctuations and curbing excess consumption. Advanced electronic controls, such as PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative), ensure precise thermal regulation, enhancing both extraction quality and energy efficiency. 

Some high-end models also integrate real-time energy monitoring systems, providing actionable insights to optimize daily operations and track usage. These functions are especially valuable in ESG-focused environments, where consumption control is part of operational transparency. 

Together, these innovations reduce environmental impact and enable more efficient cost control—with measurable benefits for every operator. 

Success stories in professional energy efficiency 

Two standout examples show how investing in energy-efficient equipment leads to both operational and environmental gains. 

Reunion Island Coffee Roasters 

This Canadian roaster based in Oakville (Ontario), operating with over 800 retail points across North America and Asia, demonstrated how energy efficiency can be implemented even in existing facilities. By replacing traditional lighting with LEDs and motion sensors, optimizing HVAC systems, and applying reflective window films, the company achieved a 25% reduction in energy consumption, with an estimated 5% energy savings per pound of coffee roasted and an 80% reduction in consumption with their new energy-efficient roaster.

Besides the operational savings, the initiative reinforced the brand’s green positioning and enhanced its image among customers and partners. 

La Marzocco (De’Longhi Group) 

A legendary espresso machine manufacturer, La Marzocco has launched a sustainability strategy aligned with ESG standards. After joining the De’Longhi Group, the company strengthened its governance by adopting double materiality principles (evaluating both the environmental impact on the company and the company’s impact on the environment) and transparency in energy emissions (clear reporting of energy use and related emissions). 

At the product level, models like the Linea PB are equipped with intelligent standby systems, insulated boilers, and optimized PID-based thermal controls, which independent tests show can reduce energy usage by up to 38%, while the eco mode significantly cuts consumption during idle periods. These features not only reduce consumption but also represent a key buying factor for professionals who prioritize sustainability.