How Can a Retail Store Building Reduce Energy Consumption?

Retail store owners need to know how their facility’s energy consumption is billed to control energy costs better. Many retailers are charged a monthly rate that includes a base fee plus an added charge for each kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity used. In some cases, a demand charge may also be applied for the highest level of power used during a billing period. To lower their overall energy costs, retail store owners should focus on reducing their consumption and peak demand. 

Some ways to reduce energy consumption include:

Insulation

Retail buildings are complex environments with various factors that can affect energy efficiency. One of the most important is insulation. Insulation can help stabilize building temperatures and reduce the need for heating and cooling by keeping the heat in the building during and out of the summer. In addition, insulation can help minimize air leakage, prevent drafts, and improve energy efficiency. When shopping for insulation, retail building owners should look for products with high R-values, which measure a material’s ability to resist heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation will improve energy efficiency. With so many factors to consider, insulation can be one of the most important when it comes to improving a retail building’s energy efficiency. Another way to improve a building’s energy efficiency is to install double glazing Bristol windows which helps to reduce heat loss.

Properly Install Economizer

The Economizer is an energy-saving device installed on air conditioning systems. When the air conditioner is not needed, the Economizer allows outside air to enter the building and reduces the need for cooled air. This reduces the cooling energy consumption by 20% to 30%. When outside air is humid, the Economizer includes a damper to prevent moisture from entering the building. Otherwise, the humidity would condense inside the air conditioner and cause damage. The Economizer is a simple and effective way to reduce energy consumption and improve comfort in buildings.

Maintain HVAC System

As with any business owner, heating and cooling costs can take a big bite out of the budget. During the summer, air conditioners work overtime to keep the building cool, while furnaces work around the clock to maintain a comfortable temperature in the winter. The most important factor is to ensure that the HVAC system is regularly cleaned and serviced. This helps to ensure that the system is running at peak efficiency and prevents costly repairs down the road. By taking this simple step can enjoy significant savings on their heating and cooling bills.

 

Upgrade to High-Quality & Efficient Lighting

Any business owner knows that the electricity bill is one of the largest expenses. Not only is it a high monthly cost, but it can also fluctuate based on season and usage. One way to reduce energy costs is to upgrade to high-quality, efficient lighting. This can be a significant upfront investment but will quickly pay for itself in lower energy bills. In addition, upgrading to energy-efficient lighting can positively impact sales. Customers are increasingly aware of environmental concerns and are more likely to support businesses that are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint. As a result, investing in energy-efficient lighting can be a smart business decision that pays off in both financial and environmental terms.

LED

Fluorescent lamps have been the standard lighting technology for retail stores for many years. However, LEDs are now emerging as a more energy-efficient and cost-effective option. Today LED is one of the most energy-efficient and rapidly developing lighting technologies.

LEDs use less wattage than fluorescents while providing equivalent or higher light levels. In addition, LEDs last longer than fluorescents, meaning they need to be replaced less often. They offer higher energy efficiency, and LEDs also last longer than other types and could be dimmed to suit your needs. 

Benefits of LED

• LED lighting reduces light pollution, improves visibility and security in parking lots of retail buildings, and is ideal for saving energy. 
• Quality LED light bulb last longer, is more durable, and offer comparable or better light quality. 
• LEDs emit little heat, which reduces fire risk. 
• They also turn on instantly, which can be helpful in applications where quick response time is important, such as security lighting. 

Due to these advantages, LEDs are increasingly used in various settings, including parking lots and retail buildings. By switching to LED lighting, businesses can improve visibility and security while reducing energy costs. In addition, LED lighting can provide customers with a brighter and more inviting environment. For these reasons, more and more retailers are switching to LED lighting. 

 

Incorporate Daylighting Design

In retail stores, appearance is everything. Good lighting can make products more appealing and draw customers into the store, while bad lighting can create a gloomy atmosphere that drives customers away. One way to create an inviting store ambiance is to incorporate daylighting design. Skylights and windows can brighten a space and reduce the need for electric lighting, saving energy costs. However, a daylighting design must be carefully planned to avoid problems like glare and excessive heat. By working with a qualified daylighting designer, retailers can take advantage of the many benefits of natural light while ensuring that their store is a comfortable place for employees and customers.

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are a form of renewable electricity generation used by retail facilities in cities that want to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Solar PV systems work by converting sunlight into electricity, and they can be used to power a wide range of electronic devices. In addition to being environmentally friendly, solar PV systems have several other benefits. They are relatively low maintenance and can provide a reliable power source even in areas where the sun is not always shining. Solar PV systems are also becoming increasingly affordable, making them an attractive option for retail facilities looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Compare Your Business Energy Deals

When looking for the best energy deals, finding someone who’ll give precisely what your company needs at a competitive price with other businesses can be hard. Utility bidder will help you find the best deals on your energy prices.