The pace behind moves to green up UK shopping centres is hastening. Figures reveal total carbon emissions across retail and supply chains have been reduced by 19% since 2005, as retailers strive to hit a 28% target by 2020.

More numbers show retail energy efficiency is now in the corporate crosshairs as a key industry target. Evidencing this, the BRC has launched its 25-in-5 programme; this policy and regulation platform seeks to inspire £4.1bn of cumulative energy and carbon savings by 2050.

The signals show why developing greener shopping centres is so urgent. The CBRE writes; ‘For the first time there is research based evidence to support the real and tangible benefits of investing in energy efficient features to drive shopping centre market value.’

“Shopping centres are one of the biggest single contributors to CO2 emissions in the UK commercial property sector,” says Rebecca Pearce, EMEA Head of Sustainability, CBRE.

“To finally have evidence to prove that energy efficiency is not just a costly exercise without financial benefits is massive for our industry.”

“This needs to serve as a wake-up call to developers, investors, owners and all associated stakeholders that energy efficiency and sustainability isn’t a fad. It’s here to stay, adds real value when implemented properly, and is business critical to the lifecycle of shopping centres.”

Why voltage optimisation (VO) is an ideal part of the new approach

VO offers painless installation and instantaneous benefits; precisely the metrics required for time pressurised retailers who need quick results and minimum downtime. An installation can be carried out fast; ready to let the next wave of shoppers through the door.

The benefits go way beyond energy efficiency alone; they will also ensure consistent power quality, crucial for positive customer experience and vital for resilience against an ever more unstable grid supply. There is little less appealing than a shop whose cold food units or lights flicker or fail following grid instabilities.

Further, VO extends the life of every piece of electrical equipment. Recent Efficient Power Solutions work with The Brewery Shopping Centre in Essex shows how.

Compelling evidence of positive change in The Brewery

The Brewery features cafes, restaurants, shops, a 16 screen cinema and Virgin Active Gym. Efficient Power Solutions’ audit revealed energy savings of 12.5% were available through VO, with an ROI of 2 to 3 years, very short compared with competing efficiency options.

Further, vastly more reliable electricity, provided through the regulated 220V output, delivers better equipment life expectancy. It is for this reason that VO is best embedded estate wide, where it can work its magic most sweetly.

As retail centres nationwide up their game, an exciting new era of energy efficiency in retail looks to be here. As part of this, VO offers an ideal, affordable and wide reaching opportunity to set up game changing retail improvements.

Want to find out more? Read a case study on our deployment of EVO+R technology at VUE Cinemas.