Retailers told to save energy to cut costs

SAVING energy is one practical way for retailers to cut costs, a representative from TUV Rheinland Phililippines Inc. said last week.

Speaking before the General Membership Meeting of the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA)-Cebu Chapter last Wednesday, Jong Fernandez of TUV Rheinland Phils. said reducing energy consumption should be part of a company’s program as this would help businesses of any size become competitive and profitable.

He said retailers should use effective energy measures considering the hike of power prices as well as the power supply problem faced by the country today. He said power outages and rotation brownouts caused by the tightening of power supply has affected business operations.

“Saving energy can translate into big savings for the company,” Fernandez said.

According to PRA, power consumption accounts for 35 percent to 55 percent of a retailer’s operational costs.

Fernandez reported the global demand on energy usage is projected to increase by 57 percent in the next 25 years and while more economic activities are geared toward Asia, energy demand in Asia would likely increase by 40 percent in 2032.

Fernandez said that energy is a crucial requirement in any business operation and retailers should employ measures to help them keep track of their energy usage and do corrective actions. He encouraged organizations to look into ISO 50001, an energy management standard that provides organizations with management strategies to increase energy efficiency, reduce costs and improve performance.

Fernandez said companies can use an incentive-driven approach where achievements on energy management are recognized.

He also shared “no-cost practices” in achieving energy management such as habit changes like turning off lights or equipment that are not in use; using compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) instead of incandescent bulbs; using CFL fixtures with reflective backing; and cleaning lamps every six months for efficient energy use.

Fernandez also encouraged Cebuano retailers to participate in the ConservePhil Project, a public-private partnership program on energy conservation.

During the event, PRA also named Casa Verde, Cafe Georg, Shamrock and Cebu Home Builders as outstanding retailers. The group also introduced new members, including Anita’s Bakeshop. KOC with Careen L. Malahay, USJ-R Mass Comm Intern.