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In an era where sustainability and energy efficiency are becoming paramount, major retail chains are increasingly focusing on transforming their energy use. Transitioning towards more sustainable energy practices not only reduces environmental impact but also brings significant economic benefits. In this article we explore the innovative strategies that leading retailers are adopting to optimize energy consumption. We will discuss renewable energy integration, advanced energy monitoring systems and smart technologies. Energy consumption in the retail sector A long value chain characterizes the retail sector, involving numerous economic actors, activities, and, consequently, consumption and emissions. Not surprisingly, it is one of the most carbon-intensive industries, contributing to high levels of greenhouse gas emissions. The extensive retail value chain produces most of these emissions and accounts for up to 98% of a retailer’s total emissions. According to the GHG Protocol‘s categorisation of emissions, the retail sector has a large impact on Scope 3 emissions. This includes the sourcing of goods, their transportation and distribution, and the end-of-life processing of products. Given these numbers, retail companies are increasingly aiming to lower their environmental impact and actively combat climate change. One of these is the renowned fashion chain Golden Goose. The Golden Goose case Golden Goose is a distinguished Italian brand specialized in handcrafted sneakers, blending traditional Italian craftsmanship with contemporary urban style. The company began its journey in Venice and quickly expanded to the global market, particularly gaining popularity in the United States. People widely recognize the brand for its commitment to artisanal quality, innovative design, and attention to detail. Golden Goose aims to create unique, high-quality footwear that reflects a fusion of modernity and tradition. The company also strongly commits to environmental sustainability by reducing the impact of its production processes and increasing their efficiency. The main energy source used by Golden Goose is electricity, not only to power the production processes but also the physical stores and workspaces. In fact, lighting, heating and air conditioning, and vehicles are the most energy-intensive systems. According to their report, the recent business expansion has increased their energy consumption. In 2023, they report being able to meet 100% of the electricity needs of their stores, offices and sites worldwide from renewable sources. They extend their culture of environmental responsibility to their entire value chain, including suppliers, stakeholders, and business partners. They achieved carbon neutrality in Italy in 2023, and BREEAM certified their Milan headquarters. In 2023, their activities produced 75,464 tons of CO2 equivalent in greenhouse gas emissions, with 99.5% being indirect emissions (Scope 3). The majority of these emissions originated from the upstream and downstream stages of the production chain. These include raw material extraction, product distribution, and end-of-life management. Their annual reports highlight the progress they have made in energy efficiency, and provide insight into the strategies they have adopted. We have analysed and collected the best advice that can be applied not only to retail companies but also across the industry. Best practices Here is a list of the best practices the company has adopted to optimise energy consumption and reduce costs:

The Industry 5.0 Decree offers Italian companies extraordinary incentives for adopting advanced technologies. Learn how to access the tax credit. The Industry 5.0 Decree represents a revolution for Italian companies. Published in March 2024, this decree offers extraordinary incentives for the adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and IoT. Discover how your company can benefit from tax credits and incentives designed to enhance competitiveness and promote green investments. What does the Industry 5.0 decree consist of? The Industry 5.0 decree is a regulation aimed at promoting a significant evolution of companies, integrating more advanced digital technologies and ecological sustainability into production processes. The 5.0 transition plan aims to support companies that will invest in goods and activities that generate energy savings and/or bring improvements in energy efficiency. Industry 4.0 focused on the interconnection between machinery and information systems. Industry 5.0 instead looks at the entire production process and the energy efficiency interventions that can be carried out. This transition is facilitated with an increase in the tax credit that goes from 20%, provided for by the Industry 4.0 decree, to a credit of between 35% and 45%, and which for some types of photovoltaic systems can reach up to 63%. Allocation of the funds In total, approximately 6.3 billion in tax credits have been allocated to cover expenses incurred between January 1, 2024 and December 31, 2025. The goal is to support the digital transition of Italian companies. Of these, 3.78 billion are aimed at supporting energy efficiency measures. In particular, the funds support IoT technologies, ERP and new machinery. 1.89 billion are earmarked for goods for self-production and self-consumption from renewable sources. Finally, 630 million are dedicated to staff training on topics relating to the digital and energy transition. Who can benefit from the funds provided? All companies resident in Italy that make new investments in innovation projects in the two-year period 2024-2025 and which result in a reduction in energy consumption benefit from the 5.0 tax credit. However, these benefits are subject to an essential condition; namely, that a reduction in energy consumption of the entire production structure of no less than 3% is achieved or, alternatively, a reduction in energy consumption of the processes affected by the investment of no less than 5%. Which goods are eligible? An essential distinction is made between two types of investments, driven and driving. Driving investments are fundamental investments that must be made in order to benefit from the incentives provided for by the plan. They must include tangible or intangible assets 4.0 that contribute significantly to energy saving and the digital transformation of companies. For example, software for monitoring and efficiency of production processes, such as our e boost PRO, are among the driving investments. Driven investments, on the other hand, can only be made after having made a driving investment. They do not necessarily have to contribute directly to energy saving but are still linked to the objectives of technological and digital transformation. They can include: Let’s take a practical example to help us understand better. Company X produces specific accessories for its plastic products using injection/milling processes and replaces these small productions with a new process based on 3D printing. This innovation allows the required specific parts to be produced in small series with maximum efficiency. As a result, warehouses are eliminated and the overall process is optimized. The savings in this case are extremely variable but potentially in the order of 35%. If we assume an initial investment of 120,000 euros, with the 45% credit a benefit of 54,000 euros is earned. This is a driving investment, because it improves energy efficiency. Subsequently, the company purchases a management system that integrates the consumption management part, making an investment of 65,000 euros. This second investment, driven because it is secondary to the first, still benefits from 45% credit and therefore the company earns a benefit of 29,250 euros. How to access credit, step by step Below we define the procedure necessary to access the tax credit 5.0: After the start of the works The required certifications are official and must therefore be produced by accredited bodies. We can support you in their processing and in monitoring the progress of the procedures. For small and medium-sized businesses, the expenses incurred to fulfill the certification obligation are recognized as an increase in the tax credit for an amount not exceeding 10,000 euros. For businesses exempt from auditing the additional amount for the required certifications is a maximum of 5,000 euros. VEIL energy services for Industry 5.0 e boost PRO, our advanced energy monitoring platform with artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the 4.0 Green capital goods that allow access to the Transition Plan 5.0. In fact, it allows for savings of more than 5% for the entire production structure and therefore benefits from a 35% tax credit. Furthermore, it can extend the same benefit to other “driven” investments that will also benefit from the same tax benefit. In addition to this, we offer consultancy services and recognized energy certifications that are necessary to access credit. We support you in all phases of the process: Do not hesitate to contact us for any information or professional evaluation for your systems!

Bridging Technology and Humanity for a Resilient Industrial Revolution Industry 5.0 represents a shift from the automated and interconnected Industry 4.0 model to a more sustainable and human-centric approach. Industry 4.0 emphasized integrating smart technologies like IoT, AI, and big data for better automation and efficiency. In contrast, now the goal is to merge these technologies with a strong focus on environmental sustainability and human well-being. Key Differences Between Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 Implications of Industry 5.0 This transition has far-reaching implications for industries worldwide. By fostering a more inclusive and sustainable industrial ecosystem, companies can not only boost their efficiency and productivity but also contribute to broader societal goals. This new model encourages businesses to innovate responsibly, prioritizing the well-being of workers and the environment. VEIL energy’s Role At VEIL energy, we are at the forefront of this industrial transformation. With over 20 years of experience in the energy sector, our consultancy services are designed to help industrial clients achieve over 20% energy efficiency improvements. Our expertise extends to energy process management and optimization through our advanced SaaS platform, e·boost. How VEIL energy Supports Industry 5.0: VEIL energy is dedicated to supporting the transition to Industry 5.0 by providing innovative energy solutions that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and human-centricity in industrial operations.

Choosing the Right Certification for Your Green Building Project In the realm of green building certifications, two names often stand out: LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). Both LEED and BREEAM certification aim to improve building sustainability, but they differ in approach, criteria, and regional focus. LEED Certification LEED is an internationally recognized certification system that emphasizes energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy. Buildings that achieve LEED certification are recognized for their commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The process involves meeting stringent criteria across several categories, including energy use, water efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and materials selection. One of the significant advantages of LEED certification is its global recognition. This makes it an excellent choice for projects aiming for high visibility and alignment with international sustainability standards. However, the process can be costly and complex, requiring extensive documentation and a thorough understanding of the certification criteria. BREEAM Certification BREEAM, on the other hand, offers a flexible approach to green building certification, focusing on the local context and promoting cost-effective energy efficiency programs. It is particularly popular in Europe and evaluates buildings based on their performance in categories such as energy, health and well-being, innovation, land use, materials, management, pollution, transport, waste, and water. The flexibility of BREEAM is one of its main strengths, allowing for adaptation to various types of buildings and projects. However, it may not be as widely recognized outside Europe, and the assessment process can sometimes be seen as subjective. Choosing Between LEED and BREEAM Deciding between LEED and BREEAM depends on several factors, including the location of the project, the specific sustainability goals, and the target audience. LEED is ideal for projects seeking international recognition and a comprehensive approach to energy efficiency and sustainability. In contrast, BREEAM is well-suited for projects in Europe or those looking for a flexible and cost-effective sustainability certification. How VEIL Energy Can Help Navigating the complexities of green building certifications can be challenging, but VEIL Energy is here to help. Our team of experts provides tailored consultancy services to guide businesses through the LEED and BREEAM certification processes. We ensure that projects meet the necessary criteria efficiently and cost-effectively, helping businesses achieve their sustainability goals and gain the recognition they deserve. By leveraging our expertise in energy management and green energy solutions, VEIL Energy supports businesses in creating sustainable, certified buildings that benefit both the environment and the bottom line.

Picture a community where neighbors come together to invest in and benefit from renewable energy projects. This is the essence of Renewable Energy Communities, shorten REC. The shift toward renewable energy is becoming increasingly critical worldwide and these communities are at the forefront of this transition. They represent a collaborative approach to producing, consuming, and managing renewable energy, focusing on local, sustainable solutions such as solar and wind energy. Find out how our services can support Renewable Communities by optimizing energy usage, enhancing integration of various renewable sources and involving users into the transition. What are REC? To begin with, REC are groups of individuals or organizations that pool resources to fund renewable energy projects. These projects often include solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage systems. The primary goal of Renewable Energy Communities is to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and enhance energy efficiency for all members. By participating in an REC, community members share the benefits of renewable energy, from reduced energy bills to a lower carbon footprint. How do REC work? Renewable Energy Communities are groups made up of local residents, social entrepreneurs, community organizations, and public authorities. These members work together as volunteers, investors, or participants to support energy projects in their community. Members of REC’s generate renewable electricity for their own use and can either store it or sell it on the free electricity market or to other members of the same energy community. The energy generated comes from various renewable sources. Given these attributes, they are commonly called “self-consumers” or “prosumers.” When designing an energy community, a key consideration is the optimal arrangement of technologies and energy-sharing strategies among its members. Consequently, the success of the community depends on choosing the right systems for generating and managing energy. This is why energy management softwares are crucial for the long-term sustainability of a Renewable Energy Community. Acknowledging the potential of energy communities to enhance Europe’s energy system in terms of security, affordability, and cleanliness, the REPowerEU Plan set a collective political goal to establish one energy community per municipality with a population exceeding 10,000 by 2025. The collective energy activities within an energy community encompass a wide range of functions. These include energy generation, electricity distribution, energy supply, aggregation, consumption, sharing, storage, and the provision of energy-related services and technologies. Considered the energy activities necessary in a REC, in the next section we will explore the role of energy management systems and which activities they can support. The role of energy monitoring and management Monitoring and management softwares serve as the backbone of energy optimization in Renewable Communities. These systems provide real-time data, predictive analytics, and automation capabilities that help in managing energy consumption and generation more efficiently. Here are some of the ways that our energy efficiency platform e·boost supports renewable communities: Data monitoring and analytics: Our AI-based system continuously collects data from various sources, including solar panels, wind turbines, and smart meters. Users can see real-time energy consumption and production, allowing them to adjust usage patterns to optimize efficiency. Moreover, the e·boost platform and app provide real-time status updates for machinery and processes, including electric, gas, and water metering. As RECs have a large number of facilities, it is essential to guarantee the monitoring of plants’ performance anytime and anywhere. Prosumer ship and self-consumption: Many renewable communities use a mix of solar, wind, and other renewable sources. Energy management systems (EMSs) can integrate these sources to ensure a balanced and reliable energy supply. In addition, effective management of energy storage systems, such as batteries, is crucial. EMSs can optimize when to store excess energy and when to release it, ensuring a steady energy supply even when generation is low. For communities connected to the national grid, these apps can manage when to draw power from the grid or feed excess renewable energy back into it, optimizing both cost and energy efficiency. Predictive analytics and maintenance: Regular maintenance is gradually being supplemented by condition monitoring and predictive maintenance. The latter is able to monitor the operation of plants and, through the use of machine learning, predict possible failures before they occur. e·boost can predict when maintenance is needed based on performance data, preventing unexpected breakdowns and ensuring continuous energy production. This approach dramatically reduces asset management costs and improves efficiency by continuously assessing asset health and detecting anomalies. Enhancement of grids’ stability: By carefully managing when and how energy is consumed or stored, RECs can contribute to grid stability. Our energy management system help in predicting and managing peak loads and potential shortfalls, thus reducing the strain on the external grid and enhancing overall reliability. User engagement and education: Providing feedback on energy consumption helps users understand their energy use patterns and how they can reduce wastage. Energy management systems can support incentive programs by tracking energy savings and rewarding users for adopting energy-efficient practices. The sense of community can be encouraged by sharing data on how the collective efforts are contributing to sustainability goals. In our platform, advanced energy monitoring data is presented in a comprehensive yet intuitive dashboard. Renewable communities can measure their carbon footprint with direct CO2 impact calculations and identify consumption patterns with customized reports on energy efficiency and historical trends. VEIL energy’e role  Monitoring and management apps are vital tools for optimizing energy usage and integrating renewable energy sources in Renewable Energy Communities. Our services can support them by providing advanced energy management solutions that optimize usage and integration of various renewable sources. With real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and automation, our platform ensures efficient energy consumption, improved grid stability, and proactive maintenance. By engaging users and facilitating transparent data access, we help communities reduce costs, boost sustainability, and achieve their energy goals effectively. Do not hesitate to contact us for a demo, energy audit or more information about our services!

Understanding the Significance of Sustainable Development Goals in Today’s World In 2015, the United Nations set forth an ambitious agenda known as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a blueprint for achieving a better and more sustainable future for all. These 17 goals address the global challenges we face, including those related to poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice. Each goal is interconnected; therefore, recognizing that action in one area will affect outcomes in others is essential, and development must balance social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Explanation of Each SDG Here is a brief explanation of each of the 17 SDGs: Focus on Energy-Related SDGs Several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) directly relate to energy, highlighting its crucial role in sustainable development. For instance: Addressing climate change is a critical aspect of the SDGs. Therefore, the goals aim to combat global warming through renewable energy management systems and green energy solutions for businesses. By focusing on energy management and conducting energy audits, companies can significantly reduce their carbon footprints and contribute to a healthier planet. How VEIL Energy Can Help At VEIL Energy, we understand the critical role businesses play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Our comprehensive energy consultancy services are designed to help businesses align with these goals. Through detailed energy audits and the implementation of tailored energy efficiency solutions, we support companies in reducing their carbon footprints and achieving sustainability targets. Whether it’s through industrial energy efficiency audits or energy optimization for IT companies, VEIL Energy provides the expertise needed to drive sustainable practices and contribute to a greener future.

Decarbonisation is the process of reducing carbon and greenhouse gas emissions released into the environment. To effectively reduce harmful gas emissions into the atmosphere, it is essential to convert fuel energy to renewable energy and minimise waste through continuous CO2 monitoring. How is a Decarbonisation Plan Carried Out? Decarbonisation involves reducing fuel energy use over time and implementing sustainable measures at corporate, local, and global levels. Businesses can take two main ways to decarbonization: Become a Decarboniser Implementing decarbonisation actions is more straightforward than you might think. Key steps include: Veil Energy provides state-of-the-art energy efficiency management software to help implement these actions effectively. The Concrete Goal of Decarbonisation The ultimate objective is to maintain global warming below 1.5°C compared to pre-industrial levels. Achieving this requires global commitment and comprehensive strategies to reduce climate change impacts. Promoting Global Decarbonisation While installing energy monitoring and efficiency systems is a crucial first step, it is insufficient alone. Real-time management tools are essential to enhance collected data and achieve concrete decarbonisation goals. Additional measures include reducing combustion vehicle usage, monitoring energy use, improving building energy efficiency, and promoting sustainability across all sectors. Veil Energy is dedicated to leading the charge in energy efficiency and sustainability, offering practical tools and innovative solutions to meet today’s decarbonisation challenges.

Understanding and reducing the carbon footprint is at the heart of companies’ long-term strategies and a key sustainability and environmental responsibility. Companies are increasingly setting carbon reduction targets, investing in renewable energy and implementing energy efficiency measures. Understand the importance of measurements and strategies in place to make meaningful progress in environmental impact reduction. What is a Carbon Footprint and how is being calculated? A carbon footprint represents the total greenhouse gas emissions caused by an individual, organization, event, or product. It is a crucial metric in assessing the environmental impact, primarily measured in tonnes of CO2 equivalents, encompassing gases such as CO2, CH4, N2O, HFCs, PFCs, and SF6. It is calculated based on the guidelines of the Kyoto Protocol, which mandates the inclusion of various greenhouse gases. The GHG Protocol and ISO 14064-1 are the predominant international standards used for these calculations. Advanced CO2 monitoring software, like e·boost and supplementary emission calculation tools provide precise estimates, helping businesses and nations to manage their environmental impact effectively. Carbon footprint measurements Calculating the carbon footprint is vital for understanding and mitigating the harmful emissions contributing to climate change. With nearly 50% of the global ecological footprint attributed to carbon dioxide and other gases, quantifying these emissions is the first step towards implementing effective reduction strategies. This is crucial for companies, public administrations, and institutions striving for sustainability. To accurately estimate the carbon footprint, businesses employ standards like the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064-1, alongside sophisticated CO2 monitoring software. These tools enable comprehensive tracking and reporting of emissions, facilitating more informed decisions to reduce environmental impact. Strategies for Reducing Carbon Footprint Once it is quantified, the primary goal is to reduce it through actionable strategies: At VEIL ENERGY, we emphasize the importance of maximizing energy efficiency and eliminating waste to achieve substantial emissions’ reduction. Reducing the carbon footprint is not only an environmental imperative but also a significant business advantage. Companies that actively reduce their emissions can: By integrating these strategies, businesses not only contribute to a healthier planet but also position themselves as leaders in sustainability, gaining competitive advantages in an increasingly eco-conscious market. Understanding and reducing the carbon footprint is at the heart of companies’ long-term strategies and a key sustainability and environmental responsibility. Companies are increasingly setting carbon reduction targets, investing in renewable energy and implementing energy efficiency measures. Understand the importance of measurements and strategies in place to make meaningful progress in environmental impact reduction.