Energy Saving Checklist For Retailers

For more detail: Step-by-step guide: Energy efficiency and carbon reduction in the retail industry

Monitor usage and the changes you’re making

Knowing what works will help you develop an energy strategy and justify future investment

Work with your landlord

• Follow the BRC’s Retailer/Landlord Net Zero Building Protocol
• Agree joint efficiency targets
• Simplify data requests
• Review lease requirements that impact energy use
• Invest collaboratively
  
  

Review your equipment

• Do an audit of what you have (see Carbon Trust guide)
• Warning signs equipment needs maintenance
  • Becoming less reliable
  • Energy use is rising
  • Indoor temperatures not stable
  • Sitting idle for a long time
• Clean filters of ventilators and heaters
• Ensure nothing is blocking air ventilation outlets
• Defrost any freezers regularly
• Service boilers regularly
  
  

Focus on efficiency

• Adhere to manufacturer warranty maintenance levels
• Switch off devices, not just lights:
  • PCs
  • Printers
  • Tills
  • Exhibits and screens
  • Coffee machines
  • Fridges, where possible e.g. for drinks
• Turn heating down - 1℃ saves approx. 6%
• Don’t have heating and air conditioning on together
• Keep doors and windows closed
• Use signage on doors in stores to say you’re open
  
  

Use controls to save energy

• Set timers to match building use
• Lower lighting and temperatures at night
• Can’t turn off entirely? Consider:
  • Installing timers
  • Twilight switches
  • Motion detectors
  • Daylight-controlled lamps
• Set ventilation/air conditioning to turn/off efficiently
• Check fridges and freezers are set correctly
  
  

Prioritise investments

• Check supply contracts
• Compare your contract terms with the market
• Source green electricity
• Invest in LED lighting
• Upgrade devices to more energy-efficient models
• Insulate your heating pipes
• Ensure low impact refrigerant gases in new refrigeration installations

And finally….

Involve your team

• They may have other suggestions
• Put signs and reminders around the workplace
• Share advantages of energy optimisation – not just for business but also tips for homes

With thanks to Mitsubishi Electric, partners on the BRC’s Climate Action Roadmap