In Evanston, Illinois, Walgreens has opened its first net-zero energy retail store. The store features two wind turbines, 850 solar panels, and a geothermal system which are expected generate a total of 220 megawatt-hours (MWh) per year. The retail chain currently uses all of these renewable energy technologies in stores across the country, but this is the first store which combines all three. In addition to the energy generating technologies, the store also features many energy efficient technologies such as LED lighting; carbon dioxide refrigerant for heating, cooling and refrigeration equipment; and energy efficient building materials which are expected to help reduce the store's energy usage by 50 percent. On an annual basis the store is expected to consume 200 MWh, 20 MWh less than it generates, allowing the building to achieve a net-zero status. The store is seeking platinum certification through the U.S. Green Building Council LEED program, Net Zero Certification through the Living Building Challenge, and has received GreenChill platinum certification through the U.S. EPA.

Press Release - Walgreens Debuts Nation's First Net Zero Energy Retail Store in Evanston, Ill.

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