Electricity and Fuel Use

Historically, grocery stores have used more energy per square foot than any other building type. We know today that there are dozens of operational efficiencies that can help a co-op minimize its energy use and spend, as well as lots of small and large equipment upgrades that can add up to big savings. Co-ops spend an average of $81,824 per store on energy use, or $6.09 per square foot annually. In addition to reducing the store’s carbon footprint, savings from reduced energy expenses go directly to the bottom line. The top energy user in a supermarket is refrigeration, followed by lighting and heating and cooling the store.