Simons has partnered with VIC 20 Management Inc. to install one of the largest photovoltaic systems in a Canadian shopping centre. When complete, more than 50 per cent of Simon’s Londonderry Mall store’s electrical needs will be powered by clean, green, solar energy.
“We are thoroughly examining how we can reduce our environmental impact throughout the whole company, from the suppliers we work with to the raw materials we use”, said CEO Peter Simons. “Our stores are the visual and tactile part of the Simons experience, so it is extremely important that we continue testing sustainability initiatives, like the latest in solar PV technology, on location where we interact with our customers.”
“With Edmonton being one of the sunniest cities in Canada, Londonderry was a natural testing ground for the latest in solar-electric technology,” said Jordan Adams, general manager, Londonderry Mall. “Simons is leading the way in leveraging innovation to create new standards for sustainability in retail, and we’re thrilled to be partnering with them to bring visibility to solar technologies in Canada.”
The solar array will include 700 electric modules in the parking lot, and an additional 1,100 modules on the roof. Combined, the system will generate 470,000 kWh/year, which is the equivalent of 65 homes. The system will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 300 tonnes per year.
In addition to the solar panels, electric car charging stations will be installed in the parking lot next to Simons. The fashion retailer also plans on LED lighting throughout the store, and dimmable light fixtures in areas that have natural light, to maximize use of day light while reducing 40 per cent of those stores’ lighting needs.
This eco-friendly Simons location is part of Londonderry Mall’s revitalization. Simons Londonderry will open in August of 2017.
Simons, founded in 1840 by John Simons as a dry goods store in Quebec City, transitioned over the years from dry goods to fashion retail. Today, the brand is run by brothers Peter and Richard Simons.
Londonderry Mall opened in 1972 and is currently managed and leased by 20 VIC Management Inc. The mall started its major redevelopment project in 2014. The plan calls for a full renovation of all mall common areas, the addition of exciting new retailers, renovations of existing retailer spaces, new full-service dining experiences, a brand new relocated food court as well as a lighting upgrade of all interior and exterior fixtures and a state-of-the-art security surveillance system. The mall is open during the renovation, and over 150 retailers, including Hudson’s Bay, Winners, and Save-On-Foods, continue to offer goods and services as the renovations take place.
To learn more about Simons’ progressive green initiatives in Londonderry mall, and to keep up with the exciting changes as the mall’s renovation project comes to a close, engage with Simons and Londonderry through: www.simons.ca, Twitter @SIMONS_eng (English) or @Simons (French), Instagram @maisonsimons, Facebook facebook.com/simons.ca, Snapchat: @maisonsimons, www.londonderrymall.com, Twitter @londonderrymall, Instagram @londonderrymall, Facebook facebook.com/londonderrymall.