Convenience Made Easier.
Energy Efficiency Improvements
at Circle K Stores
Gamut Systems & Solutions was asked to improve the energy efficiency of two Circle K convenience stores located in the Phoenix, Arizona area. This case study examines the impact of these upgrades on the stores' energy consumption.
Figure 1. Photo of Circle K Store at E Carefree – Scottsdale, AZ
Project Overview
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Bell & Tatum Store, Scottsdale, AZ: Installation of a new Gamut lighting controller. (Fig. 1)
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East Carefree Highway Store, Phoenix, AZ: Installation of a new Gamut HVAC controller and thermostats. (Fig. 2)
Objective
The owner’s primary objectives were to reduce energy, improve physical security, and gain insight into store operating conditions that might affect customer satisfaction.
Methodology
Gamut initially employed a short-term data collection/monitoring approach at both stores. Energy consumption, equipment runtime, light level, and temperature data were collected for approximately six weeks before the upgrades to establish a baseline for comparison; followed by nine weeks at each store after improvements were commissioned.
Results
Table ES1. Achievable Savings Summary by Site
Bell & Tatum Store
Gamut initially employed a short-term data collection/monitoring approach at both stores. Energy consumption, equipment runtime, light level, and temperature data were collected for approximately six weeks before the upgrades to establish a baseline for comparison; followed by nine weeks at each store after improvements were commissioned.
East Carefree Highway Store
At the East Carefree Highway location, energy savings were primarily in the HVAC system. The new Gamut HVAC controller and thermostats provided consistent temperature control across all three rooftop units. Previously, one unit had a significantly lower thermostat setting than the others, leading to excessive runtime and energy use. This issue was resolved with the installation of the new controls. In addition, the connected thermostats allowed alarming for potential refrigeration equipment failure and operator deviations from efficiency and sustainability standards established.
Figure 2. Photo of Circle K Store at Bell & Tatum – Scottsdale, AZ
Conclusion
The control upgrades implemented by Gamut Systems & Solutions at the two Circle K stores resulted in significant energy savings. The Bell & Tatum store achieved a 53% reduction in lighting energy use, while the East Carefree Highway store saw a 37% reduction in HVAC energy consumption. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of targeted control upgrades in reducing energy usage and costs in commercial settings. The project not only provided immediate energy savings but also improved safety and showcased a sustainable approach to energy management for similar retail environments.