ATLANTA, Jun 15, 2010 -- BUSINESS WIRE



Prenova, Inc., the energy services firm managing over $2 billion in energy spend for dozens of national retailers, announces the results of the second-annual Energy Management & Sustainability Strategy survey. Findings indicate national retailers are increasingly concerned about energy efficiency and are refocusing efforts to promote cost-saving, sustainable business practices. Conducted in partnership with Chain Store Age, a leading industry trade publication, survey results are based on responses from nearly 200 retailers.

Key findings from the 2010 survey include:

63% of retailers reported that they have a formalized energy management/sustainability program, with 45% indicating that sustainability is a "key component" of their overall business strategy Only 5% of retailers admitted their organization doesn't worry about energy management/sustainability, yet twice as many lack specific programs to address these issues 60% of retailers stated that saving money is their primary reason for pursuing sustainable business practices, while approximately 8% were more concerned about enhancing their corporate image Common sustainability projects include installing energy efficient lighting (80%), conducting onsite energy audits (50%), and implementing energy management systems (45%) While sustainability is clearly important to retailers, so far, only 21% are using renewable sources to meet a portion of their energy needs

"This year's survey clearly shows that more retailers are focused on energy management, and that they're working harder to achieve their sustainability goals, but they're less certain about their achievements," said D. Scott Beaver, Prenova's Director of Marketing. "Last year, over 45% of retailers thought their sustainability efforts made them industry leaders. In 2010, less than 25% think so. There seems to be a better understanding of what it takes to truly lead the industry."

The results of this survey are telling because they are based on responses from a broad spectrum of retailers, including local, regional, and national chains. Approximately one-third of survey respondents worked for chains with 500 or more locations and at least $1 billion in annual revenue, while over 40% worked for chains with fewer than 50 locations and less than $250 million in revenue. A detailed analysis of survey results can be downloaded for free from either the Prenova or Chain Store Age website.

About Prenova

Prenova helps companies control energy spend by reducing utility costs and improving energy efficiency. We work hand-in-hand with our customers to develop an energy strategy that fits their unique business needs. Then we help them implement this strategy consistently across the organization by providing services that span the entire energy lifecycle. From sourcing energy to controlling energy consumption, Prenova's solutions can reduce energy spend by 10-20%. That's why companies like Burger King, Costco, Dollar Tree, Foot Locker, and Home Depot turn to Prenova.

For more information, please visit www.prenova.com.

SOURCE: Prenova, Inc.

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