Reser's Fine Foods and Energy Trust of Oregon Enhance Energy Efficiency at New Don Pancho Facility

Reser's Fine Foods and Energy Trust Collaborate for a Sustainable Future

On September 29, 2026, Reser's Fine Foods announced the completion of two major energy efficiency projects in collaboration with the Energy Trust of Oregon. These projects, located at the new Don Pancho facility in Salem, Oregon, have been designed to significantly reduce the facility's electricity usage by over 20% - translating to nearly 1.9 million kilowatt-hours annually. The upgrades are set to decrease emissions by about 8%, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The recent move to a 300,000 square-foot facility in September 2025 has enabled Reser's to rethink its operational strategies and invest in energy-efficient solutions right from the ground up. This transition not only optimizes food safety and product quality but positions the new site for durable growth in an eco-conscious market.

Both projects involved extensive planning, technical input, and analysis from the Energy Trust, including a comprehensive no-cost energy study that laid the groundwork for identifying viable energy-saving potentials.

Among the notable upgrades is a state-of-the-art centralized refrigeration system that now utilizes carbon dioxide as its primary refrigerant. This system replaces six older models that relied on substances with significantly higher global warming potentials. The new design is projected to use 41% less electricity compared to the previous baseline, all while enhancing temperature control stability and achieving 114% increased refrigeration capacity.

Alongside refrigeration enhancements, the facility has also installed a variable speed compressor paired with an energy-efficient heated-blower dryer within the compressed air project. This dynamic system is built to respond to the fluctuating demands of the facility, offering the flexibility needed while conserving energy; it is anticipated to reduce electricity usage by 44% when assessed against the former models.

Rusty Corriell, Reser's Fine Foods’ Director of Capital Projects, emphasized, "Energy efficiency was an important consideration as we planned and built this facility. Energy Trust brought valuable technical expertise to the process and helped us evaluate solutions that support efficient, reliable operations."

This partnership with Energy Trust of Oregon is not a new endeavor for Reser's. Since 2003, the two organizations have collaboratively worked on enhancing energy efficiency across multiple Reser's facilities. Laura Schaefer, Energy Trust’s Senior Program Manager, stated, "Energy Trust is proud to support Reser's in incorporating energy efficiency into the new Don Pancho facility. Considering energy performance early and verifying results after installation creates lasting environmental and operational benefits."

Reser's Fine Foods is renowned for providing fresh refrigerated deli salads, side dishes, and prepared foods, meeting the needs of various retailers and food service industries. As a family-owned entity since 1950, it has made significant contributions to local communities and continues to prioritize corporate responsibility and sustainability.

For those interested in following Reser’s commitment to sustainability and their range of products, detailed information is available on their official website.

This strategic focus signifies a broader industry trend where companies are taking actionable steps toward reducing their ecological footprints while still maintaining operational efficacy, thus ensuring their long-term viability in an increasingly competitive landscape. Reser’s initiatives not only serve as a model of corporate responsibility but also highlight the importance of innovation in energy management practices across the food services sector.