Abstract Different technological solutions are nowadays available to improve energy efficiency in centralized commercial refrigeration packs. Energy assessment of possible solutions is nowadays performed with different computational tools and comparison between alternative solutions is often difficult. In this paper, a methodology following the European Standards EN 14825 and EN 13215 is proposed for discussion. Sensitivity analysis with respect to climatic categorization of European and Mediterranean Countries is presented. The accuracy of the Seasonal Energy Performance Ratio (SEPR) estimations in comparison to traditional hourly based calculation is discussed using both absolute and relative energy figures. The reliability and usefulness of the presented method as a tool for a fair and accurate comparison between different systems is presented. Finally, next steps needed for the method full development are identified and possible further steps meeting the technology trend in commercial refrigeration are highlighted.