Smartcool Systems Inc. (Smartcool Systems), a Canada-based manufacturer of Smartcool Energy Saving Module (ESM), has completed a 25-store ESM installation program for Sainsbury's Supermarkets Ltd. (Sainsbury's), a subsidiary of J Sainsbury plc, in the UK. The installation program had three stages, an initial test store followed by a further seven store evaluation. Upon consideration of these results, the company was commissioned to install the ESM in a further 17 stores.

The supermarket chain’s energy management team widely tested the ESM to ensure it meets Sainsbury’s energy and cost reduction needs and complements Sainsbury’s new Re-Fit Program that is aimed at decreasing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

‘We have enjoyed significant business and environmental gains over the last three years with our Reset program and our extensive testing has shown that the Smartcool ESM will be a key addition to our list of Energy Reduction initiatives,’ stated Jeremy Waters, energy manager. ‘The energy savings we are experiencing with the ESM have led to valuable cost benefits and is helping us meet our Environmental targets’

Prior to making its purchase decision, Sainsbury’s concluded a comprehensive, real-world testing and analysis of the Smartcool ESM. Testing was accomplished at an initial assessment store and then at seven additional pilot sites across the UK. Testing was carried out at stores ranging in size from convenience outlets to full-sized supermarkets that revealed extensive energy, environmental and cost savings.

With the Smartcool ESM, testing at the evaluation site showed:

A savings of 12.3% kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity for refrigeration units;

Anticipated electricity reduction of 150,380 kWh annually, or enough electricity to supply 32 homes;

Anticipated GHG reductions of 202,844 pounds annually.

Meanwhile, testing at the seven pilot sites revealed:

An average reduction in total store electricity usage of 3.5 to 4.5%;

Average 30-month payback on capital invested.

Based on the eight-store testing, the ESM is now considered an approved product for Sainsbury’s Reset program which led to the further installations in 17 additional stores.

‘Sainsbury’s understands that a green business is good business,’ stated George Burnes, president and chief executive officer, Smartcool Systems. ‘Retail customers expect great products, great service and fair prices, and they want to buy from companies concerned about their communities. Installing and using energy-saving technologies that cut greenhouse gases and electrical usage helps retailers meet consumer expectations.’

The 3.5% to 4.5% reduction in total store electricity costs offered by the Smartcool ESM represents a major saving for the stores using the system.

‘These savings can then be reinvested back into store operations to improve the customer experience,’ added Burnes.

Sainsbury’s green initiatives stretch back over a decade, when Sainsbury’s was the first retailer to publish a comprehensive environmental performance report.

‘We are pleased to be part of Sainsbury’s well respected and widely recognized Reset Program,’ stated Steven Martin, director of sales, Smartcool Systems (EMEA) Ltd. ‘The quick return on investment provided by the ESM(TM) enables customers such as Sainsbury’s to meet the challenges of economic responsibility and environmental legislation.’

J Sainsbury plc is a UK-based company principally engaged in grocery and related retailing.