Washington JCPenneys earn new Energy Star

PLANO, Texas JCPenney today announced that four of its department stores in Washington state have become the first buildings to earn the new retail ENERGY STAR rating for superior energy performance and environmental protection.

According to JCPenney, the company, using tools from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, analyzed the environmental performance of the Washington stores located in Bellevue, Burlington, Puyallup and Vancouver. JCPenney found that these stores use about 35% less energy than average retail stores, reducing carbon dioxide emissions from electricity generation by 3 million pounds – a savings equal to the greenhouse gas emissions associated with electricity use of nearly 200 homes. Based on the new ENERGY STAR retail benchmark implemented Oct. 1, the four JCPenney stores collectively save almost $250,000 per year on energy, compared with average stores.

“We are honored to be the first retailer to display the ENERGY STAR on our buildings, as it signifies our commitment to energy management and efficiency across our business,” said Michael Dastugue, senior vp and director of property development for JCPenney. “Through these four stores, we have demonstrated that a focus on sound facility operations and maintenance is effective for increasing the efficiency of both new and existing stores. In addition to better controlling utility costs and reducing the environmental impact of our operations, our energy management practices reflect our ‘Every Day Matters’ philosophy and commitment to the communities in which we operate.”