How French retailers join forces to reduce energy expense

Perifem Protocol

Since February 2022, when Russia invaded Ukraine, there has been a dramatic global increase in the price of key commodities, particularly gas. In addition, the dependence of many European countries on cheap natural gas from Russia has increased concerns about the availability of energy supplies, both in the EU and globally.

All over Europe, however, measures are being taken to prepare for uncertain times, including Perifem, the French association that brings together all the players in the distribution sector on environmental issues.

In fact, Perifem has taken this action: it has brought together all the companies in the retail sector to define a series of actions to reduce consumption and absorb energy costs by next winter.

Perifem has defined a protocol that includes daily actions to be implemented from 15 October 2022, as well as emergency measures.

This initiative is supported by a strong commitment from retailers. Firstly, because they have been working for a long time to improve their operations.

Secondly, the visible increase in the price of electricity explains the acceleration of their commitment. In fact, the companies are likely to be weakened and consumer prices are likely to rise, so it is essential to avoid too great an impact on customers.

Perifem’s actions to address the energy crisis

Specifically, the following decisions were taken:

Standardise the reduction of lighting levels.
Turning off the air renewal system at night and other energy management measures.
Reducing temperatures to 17°C in all points of sale.
Systematic reduction of light intensity by 50% before the arrival of the public and by 30% during opening hours.
Stopping air exchange during the night.
Staggering ice production times (especially for fishmongers).
Switching off illuminated signs when the shop closes.

This long term trend of reducing energy consumption will have several effects, the most important being the accelerated deployment of renewable energy and the expansion of clean technologies to reduce Europe’s energy dependency.

How our Energy Management Software can help you

In this scenario, Energis.Cloud can help you in two ways: by identifying inefficiencies to lead you to energy savings, and by measuring the effectiveness of the actions you take to give you visibility of your energy performance.