Buoyed by the positive results of pilot programs conducted in seven western states, supermarket chain Albertson’s, Inc., announced that it will expand its energy conservation program to all of the company’s more than 2,500 grocery and drug stores.

Lawrence R. Johnston, Albertson’s chairman and ceo, said the goal of the coast-to-coast conservation program is to reduce the company’s annual energy consumption by 10%, or a reduction of approximately 480 million kWh of electricity per year.

Albertson’s first began taking energy conservation measures in the mid-70s, and has been a partner with the EPA’s Energy Star® program, designed to promote energy efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions.

Elements of the company’s latest program include:

  • A 25% to 50% reduction of sales-area lighting;

  • Adjusting thermostats to 75¿F in summer and 68? in winter;

  • Turning off outdoor, wall, and accent lighting during the day;

  • Limiting equipment use whenever possible;

  • Implementing energy audits and an effective maintenance program; and

  • Accelerating a strategy to outfit all of its stores with advanced energy management systems, to maintain high operating efficiencies and customer comfort.

    • As of mid-summer, energy management systems were in place in about 55% of the retail stores, according to the company. The project is expected to be completed by December 2002.

    Publication date: 09/03/2001