Datamonitor NewsWire

March 20, 2008 Thursday 3:16 PM GMT

219 words

Wal-Mart introduces HE.5 prototype store

Wal-Mart Stores has announced the introduction of its most energy efficient US store, the HE.5 prototype, that will use up to 45% less energy than the baseline supercenter. Building upon learnings from previous high efficiency stores Wal-Mart opened in 2007 and 2008, the HE.5 begins a new series of prototypes designed for specific climates, the company said.

This facility is western climate-specific, meaning the efficiency gains are made possible by innovations designed for the conditions of the region, said Wal-Mart. The company said that the HE.5 store features advancements in heating, cooling, refrigeration and lighting to conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, the store takes the integrated water-source format system that Wal-Mart piloted in its successful high efficiency stores and adapts it to the unique local climate by adding evaporative cooling and radiant flooring technologies, according to Wal-Mart. The new HE.5 system reportedly reduces the temperature of water naturally by pumping it through roof-mounted cooling towers then runs the cold water underneath the retail floor to cool the shopping area. Together, the systems provide a comfortable shopping environment while using less energy, noted Wal-Mart. Charles Zimmerman, Wal-Mart vice president of prototype and new format development, said: "Wal-Mart is piloting new technologies, driving innovation and leveraging advances in building design to better align our stores with the communities we serve. We are committed to openly sharing our learnings with the retail industry and the world because being more energy efficient is something everyone can benefit from."

March 25, 2008