Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG) has launched a new all-electric restaurant design that utilizes 100% renewable energy from wind and solar power through the purchase of certified renewable energy credits.
The new design pilot will help the company progress towards its target to reduce its direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 compared to a 2019 baseline, Chipotle said in a statement.
Key features of the responsible restaurant design concept include rooftop solar panels where feasible, all-electric equipment and systems to replace gas power, heat pump water heaters, smaller electric cookline and improved exhaust hoods compared to other Chipotle kitchens, energy management systems, biodegradable service ware, cactus leather chairs, artwork made from recycled rice husks, and electric vehicle charging stations at select locations.
The company has already opened two restaurants with the new features in Gloucester, Virginia and Jacksonville, Florida, with a third location opening later this summer in Castle Rock, Colorado.
The fast-casual restaurant chain which specializes in burritos, tacos, and bowls said it plans to have more than 100 of its new locations in 2024 utilize all-electric equipment and at least some additional elements from its new design.
"With our aggressive development goal in North America, we hold ourselves accountable to reduce the environmental impact of our restaurants," said Chipotle's chief corporate affairs officer Laurie Schalow.
"We are aiming to incorporate some elements of our responsible restaurant design into many of our new restaurant openings going forward."
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