January 9, 2026
Grocery retailers across New York continue to navigate rising electrical rates, changing incentive programs, and growing expectations for energy-efficient operations. For Tops Markets, these pressures created an opportunity to modernize stores, reduce operating expenses, and improve the in-store experience for customers and employees.
In the Fall/Winter 2025 issue of Building Western New York, journalist Jillian Benedict reported on Tops Markets’ recent lighting initiative and the company’s focus on environmental responsibility and operational efficiency across its multi-state footprint.
A Strategic Move Toward Efficiency
As reported in the article, Tops has prioritized energy efficiency for years. According to Chris Watson, Senior Director of Construction, Maintenance and Engineering, the company has been focused on responsible energy use and reducing consumption across its footprint.
“We have had an ongoing effort for energy efficiency and being environmentally responsible,” he said. “Also, with the escalating costs of energy, specifically electricity, we’ve been trying to find ways to reduce consumption.”
When rising electrical rates and expiring incentives created urgency, Tops partnered with NOCO’s Energy Solutions team to help navigate rebates and accelerate project timelines.
“From the initial consultation, NOCO stood out for their professionalism, technical expertise and collaborative approach,” said Watson.
Phase One of the project included 47 New York stores, with additional phases planned.
Delivering Upgrades Without Operational Disruption
To avoid interfering with regular store hours, installations were completed overnight and coordinated around store operations. As Watson explained:
“There wasn’t any downtime for the stores. The way NOCO was able to do it was by starting work at second shift and third shift, when the stores are closed, and they were cleaned up by the time the stores opened around 6 a.m.”
Energy Savings with Measurable Impact
The shift to high-efficiency LEDs is already producing notable results. According to Tops’ estimates, the upgrades are expected to deliver:
- 16 million kWh in annual electricity savings
- $1.6 million in reduced yearly electricity costs (if rates remain steady)
- an 80% reduction in lighting-related maintenance calls
These savings support Tops’ ongoing sustainability commitments while delivering long-term operational efficiencies across store locations.
Enhancing the Shopper Experience
Beyond energy and maintenance savings, the new lighting is improving how stores look and feel for customers and employees.
“The new lighting is brighter, cleaner and gives our stores a more modern look,” Watson said. “We’re consistently hearing positive feedback on visibility and comfort from both customers and employees.”
Watson also noted the impact on merchandising and product visibility, describing how colors in aisles “really pull out” under the new lights, creating a more engaging and modern shopping environment.
A Meaningful Step Forward for Sustainable Retail
Watson summarized the significance of the initiative in the article:
“This project represents a major step forward in how we manage energy and sustainability at Tops Markets. It demonstrates that smart infrastructure investments can deliver financial, environmental and customer experience benefits simultaneously.”
He also described working with NOCO as “a highly productive partnership,” citing the team’s technical insight, rebate support, and ability to execute with minimal operational impact.
Supporting Commercial Energy Goals Across New York
NOCO is proud to support Tops in advancing its sustainability and modernization goals. From grocery and retail environments to industrial and institutional facilities, NOCO’s team helps businesses evaluate efficiency opportunities, navigate incentives, and implement high-impact upgrades that reduce long-term costs. Contact us to start the conversation.
Source: Building Western New York — Fall/Winter 2025 Issue, pages 58–62. Written by Jillian Benedict.
