Kroger Among Energy Star's Elite

The Kroger Co. has been accepted as an Elite Member of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star Certification Nation.  

Cincinnati-based Kroger was the only grocery retailer granted Elite Member certification status, which was given to organizations that earned Energy Star certification for at least 150 buildings in 2014.

"Kroger is committed to reducing our impact on the environment, and our Energy Star-certified buildings have delivered energy and cost savings as well as reduce our carbon footprint," said Keith Oliver, Kroger's VP of facility engineering. "We are pleased to help our partners at the EPA celebrate 15 years of Energy Star certifications."

Kroger has earned 649 Energy Star certifications. The company utilizes a variety of practices to increase energy efficiency, employing technology such as LED lights, skylights and control systems, as well as engaging store associates in energy-savings initiatives. Kroger has reduced its average grocery store electricity usage by 35 percent since 2000. 

Kroger operates 2,631 supermarkets and multidepartment stores in 34 states and the District of Columbia under two dozen local banner names including Kroger, City Market, Dillons, Food 4 Less, Fred Meyer, Fry's, Harris Teeter, Jay C, King Soopers, QFC, Ralphs and Smith's.