I installed a 10 cu ft whirlpool 2 years ago. I also installed more solar at the same time and run six GC2. I had the same concerns but also gained better temp control and room.
Mine uses about 75 amp hours per day. If I didn't want to do all that is necessary for a residential I'd remove the gas fridge and line the cabinet with sheet metal all the way up to the vent. I'm sure a tin knocker could even make a vent cover.
No appliances in residential or commercial use would be designed with plywood near potential fire sources. If there is a gas release it doesn't have the capacity within the coil to flame up for real long. If the fire is caused by an electrical component it has far less chance of spreading if it's on sheet metal.
