This Solutions Spotlight article was contributed by Carrier Abound.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) can revolutionize how retailers manage energy and optimize operations across their store network. According to a study in 2024, the use of AI can reduce buildings' energy consumption and carbon emissions by at least 8%! You can see the potential to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprint.
By combining AI with other technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data Analytics, we can leverage AI to analyze, predict, prescribe and even act autonomously to optimize store equipment operations. When combined with human expertise, these insights can be effectively implemented at the store level, creating a closed loop that spans from data collection to insights, actions, and feedback. This process not only enhances store operations but also continuously refines the AI, contributing to further improvements—a virtuous cycle. In an era where consumers increasingly prioritize environmental responsibility, it is essential for retailers to adopt technologies that consistently generate positive impact. By doing so, they can meet consumer expectations while simultaneously advancing their operational efficiency and sustainability efforts.
We have applied these technologies to help two retailers in North America improve store operations. They were able to save energy, lower operating costs and reduce emissions. The icing on the cake was that both these projects won awards at the 2025 E+E Leader Awards!
The project commenced in 2019 with Carrier Abound introducing its software – the AboundTM Insights Platform – and the BluEdgeTM Command Centers to optimize energy consumption, enhance equipment performance, and streamline operations. The platform played a pivotal role in helping the retailer achieve its objectives while overcoming critical challenges:
As the project evolved, it consistently delivered measurable results. The retailer saved over 145 million kWh of energy1 which is equivalent to preventing more than 98,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions2 or equivalent to the carbon sequestered by over 1.6 million tree seedlings grown for 10 year2.
The software implementation significantly improved operational efficiency, with Command Center using it to remotely resolve 45% of work orders. This reduced truck rolls compared to the 2019 baseline, saving the retailer an estimated $6.9 million3. This also meant that the retailer was able to reduce the emissions associated with truck rolls.
The project focused on integrating the retailer’s stores with edge controls and a smart building platform, enabling 24/7 proactive remote services while ensuring robust program management and governance. By combining automation, real-time insights, and expert-driven execution, we created an agile and sustainable energy management framework.
The project began with the first store in November 2019 and scaled up to 400 projects including retrofits and new store openings. Building automation systems (BAS) were deployed across 177 retrofitted stores, delivering multiple benefits to the retailer:
Beyond operational improvements, the project has also increased energy awareness among employees, further amplifying its long-term impact. With new stores being added every month, the project’s contribution to sustainability and efficiency will only continue to grow.
Across quick-service restaurants, supermarkets, and large retail stores, etc., the ability to proactively manage energy consumption and maintain optimal store operations is critical to retailers. Retailers need to be able to plan, prioritize efforts and budgets, and control how they deliver indoor experiences to consumers that are memorable and environment friendly. The case for using AI, for managing store equipment operations and maintenance, only grows stronger.
At Carrier Abound, we remain committed to empowering retailers with innovative AI-driven solutions that deliver measurable outcomes. Our success at the E+E Leader Awards over the years – 12 wins in 9 years! – is a testament to our ability to deliver impactful results to retailers.
To learn more about Carrier Abound and their winning projects, please visit E+E Leader Awards.
