Whether you lease space for a mom-and-pop shop, own an auto dealership or manage a retail strip mall, you share energy concerns with other retail organizations. Good lighting actually functions as a sales tool in the retail world, enticing customers and enhancing merchandise.

So is it possible to turn down your energy use without turning off customers? Definitely. In fact, energy use is one of your best opportunities for controlling costs in the retail industry. PGE can show you how to cut kilowatts, create an inviting space and help your bottom line.

Why make energy-saving improvements?
Improving the energy efficiency of your establishment helps you to:

• Manage your energy consumption.
• Reduce the impact of rising energy costs on your bottom line.
• Create a more comfortable environment for customers and staff.
• Boost sales and productivity.
• For building owners, make the property more attractive to present and future tenants.
• Help the environment by using fewer natural resources and reducing your carbon footprint.

What’s consuming the most energy?
Your sales floor is usually where most of your energy use is concentrated. On average, almost half of a retail building’s overall energy usage goes toward heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Lighting is 20 percent of the overall energy pie — but about 40 percent of the electricity usage.

Obviously, lighting and HVAC are two prime areas to look to for savings. Consider how your operations compare to these averages as you focus your energy efficiency efforts.