Giving retailers the means to cut energy costs and improve bottom lines

Retail companies spend nearly $20 billion on energy each year. Given the thin profit margins in the retail sector, a reduction in energy expenses can provide a competitive advantage. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that a 10-percent decrease in energy costs at the average store has an equivalent impact on operating income as a 1.26-percent increase in sales.

OpTerra has significant experience designing and implementing comprehensive energy service solutions for retail facilities, including supermarkets. We are sensitive to capital budgeting and the desire to minimize paybacks on infrastructure improvement investments. Our engineers review projects holistically and develop a range of information that facility managers can review to support investment decisions including greenhouse gas emission reductions, onsite energy generation, and increased levels of occupant and patron comfort. We can also identify opportunities to offset utility bills through participation in utility demand response programs.

To help retailers achieve the best possible return on investments, we identify and secure a range of project financing structures and investment incentives that require low upfront capital for energy-efficiency and clean onsite generation projects. Examples of funding may include:

• Utility incentives and on-bill loans
• Federal, state and local investment incentives and grants
• Power purchase agreements