Energy Efficiency Pays Off for Stew Leonard’s

Stew Leonard’s has found there is money to be saved in going green. The Norwalk, Conn.-based supermarket operator has received a check of approximately $1 million from the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund and Connecticut Light & Power Co. (CL&P) for participating in energy-cutting incentive programs at its stores in Norwalk, Danbury and Newington, Conn.

The privately held retailer completed more than 30 energy-efficiency measures at the stores, including installing roofs with reflective materials that help reduce summer cooling costs, and implementing carbon-dioxide controls that monitor and adjust the flow of outside air for building ventilation. The stores’ signature road signs were converted to LED technology, reducing electrical costs by 75%, as well as decreasing electrical consumption during peak periods.

In an additional eco-friendly feature, Stew Leonard’s newest store, in Newington, which opened in April, has a heat-pump loop system.