K Group uses heat recycling systems to reduce electricity consumption

As a big operator, we must do our part as we strive to save electricity. By taking certain extraordinary measures, we can temporarily reduce K Group's electricity consumption by as much as 15 - 20% and reduce electricity production in Finland, says Antti Kokkonen, Building Services Manager at K Group.

The reduction of total electricity consumption in Finland by 5 -- 10% would have a big impact. Kokkonen says planning and preparation could help prevent electricity shortages in Finland next winter.

K Group has been reducing its energy use for decades. The grocery stores have been able to update refrigeration units and lighting. Recent innovation is our heat recycling systems that use waste energy.

As we prepare for the possibility of weaker electricity availability, we have sought additional extraordinary measures to save electricity.

We are able to reduce our electricity consumption by using automation to adjust in-store heating and store and advertising lighting, to name a few examples. The stores use energy-saving heat recycling systems, which in essence act like large heat pumps, which can be directed to use less electricity and more district heat if necessary, explains Kokkonen.

By 2025, K Group aims to reduce emissions from its own operations to zero by 2030. The key to achieving these targets is to increase energy-efficiency.