Energy management specialist Schneider Electric said yesterday it has launched Energy Savings Advisor, an online tool for owners and managers of retail buildings to evaluate their current energy usage and gather information on ways to increase energy efficiency.

The tool, which can be accessed at www.us.schneiderelectric.com/TheEnergyAdvisor, provides retailers an instant assessment of how their location compares with similar facility sizes and types with regard to energy use, according to the company, based in Palatine, Ill.

"Owners and managers of retail stores must effectively balance issues such as providing customers with a comfortable, well-lit shopping experience with the realities of energy usage," said Pankaj Lal, segment manager, commercial buildings. "The new Schneider Electric Energy Savings Advisor is a simple, Web-based means to find out how energy efficient a location is, and, more importantly, learn about changes that can be made to more effectively manage energy use. Chain retailers can use the tool to compare energy usage at each location and target upgrades to those with particular need."