A bill being proposed by the U.S. Congress has caused storeowners to focus on retail energy management when it comes to improving their energy efficiency. The American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 call for a cap and trade program in certain industries, the reduction in carbon emissions as well as a proposal to depend on renewable energy sources for as much as 25% of energy used by the year 2020. Efficiency standards are set for a large number of companies.

Governments around the world are considering mandatory retail energy management standards, as they address global warming. Greenhouse gases are emitted during utility processes, including the production of electricity, heating oil and other fuels and this has significant adverse potential when it comes to causing climate change, according to scientific research.

There are very intricate regulations when it comes to carbon emissions, as many businesses are finding. These regulations cover refrigerant gas, which is commonly found in heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems as well as commercial refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. The new set of energy efficiency requirements will be mandated on top of these regulations. To help these businesses, certain energy management programs can handle the tracking and reporting of emissions through an automated system.

Retail energy management uses smart technology to reduce utility usage and identify renewal energy sources. This helps to create a healthier environment by reducing greenhouse gases associated with energy use. For retailers, the benefits include a reduced carbon footprint, lower energy costs, the ability to obtain the best energy rates for their sites, and the opportunity to tap into local, state and national rebates and incentives.

Studies tell us that the average service restaurant can enjoy a 4% increase in net profit margins, if it reduces its energy needs by 10%. An average supermarket could realize a 16% increase in net profit due to a 10% energy consumption reduction. The savings should be used to pay for asset management software, as this can assist retailers to help them identify, maintain, track and report their equipment and usage.

There are several steps to take when it comes to implementing a successful retail energy management program. An existing facility should be upgraded or renewed, performance standards should be assessed, goals should be set, the action plan put in place and ultimate progress evaluated. An energy management program, through automated and comprehensive measures, should quickly and easily provide this information.

A retail energy management program will track the energy use of a building and can help you to evaluate an energy portfolio, regardless of the number and location of sites that you have. Energy Star rated equipment is advised, and automated programs can tell you about past and real-time energy use, areas for improvement, benchmarked goals and comparisons.

Retail energy management creates a comprehensive energy saving operation for one or multiple retail locations. It is particularly beneficial for any size and type of facility with a HVAC, extensive lighting, or refrigeration units installed. By controlling energy use, you can optimize the efficiency of equipment and other operational assets and significantly reduce operational costs.