United Illuminating helps ShopRite become more energy-efficient

Orange, CT It takes a lot of resources to run an expansive 63,500 s/f grocery store, but through an Energize Connecticut initiative, ShopRite is operating a new location as efficiently as possible.

United Illuminating (UI), a subsidiary of AVANGRID Inc., provided programs and services through the Energize Connecticut Energy Blueprint program to help ShopRite make energy saving upgrades to their lighting and refrigeration systems. The store, owned and operated by Garafalo Markets, is projected to experience an annual energy savings of about 659,909 kWh, equating to an estimated $118,783.

Sustainable technologies were used when renovating the store, which was completely overhauled from an outdated grocery store under different ownership. All LED lighting and environmentally friendly refrigerant systems were installed, putting the store in line with Garafalo Markets’ five-year plan to reduce energy, water and gas by 20%.

“We continue to improve efficiency and promote health initiatives as part of our company’s mission,” said owner Harry Garafalo. “We have expanded our recycling programs and also incorporate green teams, utilizing associates to assist in raising recycling efforts in all locations. These energy upgrades make for clean, bright supermarkets, which are contemporary in design and appealing to a larger group of shoppers looking for more healthy and natural alternatives.”

Beyond direct cost savings and aesthetics, the benefits of the energy efficiency upgrades touch on many areas of operation. Adding sensors and central monitoring to control temperatures and to identify problems also enhances reliability of equipment performance. This improvement frees up employees who often dealt with maintenance issues and allows them to focus on ensuring that customers are provided with top quality product and experience.

Similar energy efficiency measures were taken when the owners transformed an old movie theater in Milford into a ShopRite location in summer of 2016. Estimated savings from the installation of efficient lighting and refrigeration systems at that location will save an estimated $125,074 and 694,860 kWh in energy compared to standard systems.

Garafalo Markets, which also operates ShopRite stores in East Haven, Stratford, West Haven and Hamden, is no stranger to these available energy programs. The success of upgrades in other locations has increased the programs’ appeal.

“Garafalo Markets has taken advantage of various efficiency programs available, we worked with them to identify financial incentives to help make these improvements more fiscally feasible,” said Glen Eigo, lead engineer, United Illuminating. “These success stories serve as great examples for others in the community, showing how being more efficient provides tangible energy cost savings and supports sustainable business practices.”