AutoZone’s energy management system consists of controls and sensors that are installed in each HVAC unit to monitor its efficiency and help manage the health of the equipment. Lighting/load control panels independently control interior and exterior lighting zones, including parking lots and outdoor signage. Interior occupancy sensors turn lights on and off in areas of the stores that are not frequently used. An ultra-secure Internet gateway transmits data from each store’s HVAC and lighting equipment controls and sensors to the corporate data center. All of the equipment can be remotely managed using a desktop computer or via the mobile app.

Controlling the energy at more than 7,300 AutoZone stores
AutoZone’s energy management system controls the energy usage at more than 7,300 AutoZone stores in the United States, including Puerto Rico, as well as Mexico, where it has more than 500 stores. Across the chain, the system manages more than 24,000 HVAC units and more than 7,300 electrical lighting control panels with more than 200,000 sensors.

Remote Monitoring and Control of HVAC and Lighting
A key benefit of AutoZone’s energy management system is the ability to remotely monitor and control the HVAC and lighting equipment. More than 150 field personnel, including AutoZone’s energy management, maintenance and corporate construction teams, rely on the mobile app to remotely monitor and make changes to the HVAC and lighting equipment at the stores from virtually anywhere.

“Global Changes” feature enables simultaneous modifications for all stores
Instead of having to make changes manually for each of the stores, the energy management team can make global changes for all 7,300 stores or for stores in select geographic regions or climate zones. Changes take minutes instead of hours or days.

Preventive maintenance helps prevent system failure
The energy management system also helps with preventive maintenance. For example, if the supply air is not within the pre-set temperatures, the system sends an email alert to the designated management team members, allowing them to address potential concerns before they become costly problems.

System over-ride to accommodate changes in store hours
Each store has programmed HVAC and lighting settings and schedules based on store hours, which helps ensure that the heating, cooling and lights are not left on when the store is unoccupied. Optional overrides accommodate changes in store hours, such as for store maintenance, inventories and deliveries.

Visual reporting on a big-screen monitor
The status of every store, including local weather, is displayed on a map on a big-screen monitor at the AutoZone corporate offices. This feature allows the team to make adjustments in real-time to keep stores comfortable, especially during extreme temperatures.

Participation in utility demand-response programs
Participating in demand-response programs allows AutoZone to help avoid brownouts by reducing or shifting energy usage during peak periods. It allows AutoZone to take advantage of time-based rates and financial incentives offered by the utility companies.