Local Corner Stores and Small Businesses Receive No-Cost Upgrades, Expanding Services to Neighborhoods 

GARDENA, CALIF, January 15, 2026 – Twenty-six small businesses (24 in Gardena and two in neighboring unincorporated areas) are celebrating significant energy savings and enhanced community service thanks to no-cost, comprehensive energy efficiency assessments and upgrades made possible through the SoCalREN Commercial Energy Efficiency Programs, conducted in partnership with the South Bay Cities Council of Governments (SBCCOG). These businesses have saved 340,000 kilowatt-hours of energy and reduced their annual energy costs by approximately $102,000 (approximately $4,000 annually per business)—savings that small business owners can reinvest into their operations to better serve their communities. [A ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Yas Market (14823 S. Vermont Ave, Gardena, CA 90247) will showcase how no-cost energy upgrades are transforming local businesses and strengthening neighborhoods.] 

The SoCalREN Commercial Programs include the Business Energy Advisor Program, Hard-to-Reach Commercial Direct Install Program, and the Food Desert Energy Efficiency Equity Program, which are all designed to support small businesses in underserved communities. Corner stores, restaurants, and other small businesses receive comprehensive upgrades, which can include energy-efficient lighting, refrigeration systems, water heating improvements, and other measures—all at no cost. 

“We’re excited about these energy-efficient upgrades because they help local business owners reduce costs and reinvest in a thriving Gardena. Small businesses are the heart of our community, and when they thrive, our neighborhoods benefit,” said Tasha Cerda, mayor, City of Gardena.  “We’re so proud to partner with SoCalREN and SBCCOG to bring these resources directly to our businesses. Gardena is steadfast in becoming a greener, cleaner city and solidifying our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. Our hope is that it encourages other businesses to participate in the future.” 

The impact of these programs extends far beyond energy savings—equipping local businesses to better serve their communities. Improved lighting creates safer and more welcoming environments for customers. Upgraded refrigeration enables the sale of fresh produce and healthy food options and reduces operating costs, allowing owners to reinvest in their businesses.  

Yas Market, a cornerstone business in the community, exemplifies the program’s impact. The store received upgraded refrigeration, water heating, and enhanced exterior lighting to enhance the safety and customer experience. Beyond energy savings, these improvements will allow the market to expand fresh food offerings and improve customer experience. 

“These upgrades have made a real difference for my business and my customers,” Jesus Beltran, owner of Yas Market, said. “The new lighting and refrigeration help me keep fresh products available, and lower energy bills mean I can reinvest in my store. The team made the whole process easy while I kept my business running.” 

Business owners who participate in the programs receive comprehensive support from dedicated business energy advisors who guide them through every step of the process. From initial assessment through installation and beyond. This personalized approach builds trust and ensures businesses receive upgrades tailored to their specific needs.

“The SBCCOG’s mission is to bring valuable resources to our member cities and communities, and this SoCalREN Commercial program is a perfect example,” Bernadette Suarez, SBCCOG board chair and City of Lawndale Council member, said. “Seeing Gardena businesses thrive with upgrades at no cost to the business demonstrates the power of partnerships working for local communities.” 

Benefits for participating businesses can include: 

  • Reduced monthly utility bills, freeing up cash for other business needs 
  • Upgraded, efficient equipment that improves operations and customer experience 
  • Enhanced capacity to stock and sell fresh, healthy food options 
  • Improved store appearance and safety through exterior upgrades 
  • Ongoing support from local Business Energy Advisors who understand the community 

Building on the success in Gardena, the SoCalREN Commercial Programs have now served nearly 80 small businesses throughout Southern California, strengthening their operations while contributing to the environmental and economic health of their neighborhoods. 

For more information on these programs, visit www.socalren.org/commercial  

 ABOUT SOCALREN: The Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN) brings together a wide variety of services with one common goal: achieving unprecedented levels of energy savings throughout Southern California. SoCalREN offers a suite of customizable, no-cost services to remove barriers to achieving energy savings. These programs serve homeowners, multifamily property owners and managers, business owners, and public agencies, helping communities save energy, lower costs, and advance toward zero net energy and long-term sustainability. Learn more at SoCalREN.org. 

 ABOUT SOUTH BAY CITIES COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS:  The South Bay Cities Council of Governments (SBCCOG) is a joint powers government agency of 16 cities and the County of Los Angeles which share the goal of maximizing the quality of life and productivity of the subregion. Within this structure, cities and Los Angeles County maintain the qualities and characteristics that make them unique and independent, while also coming together collectively to address issues of common interest for a greater good of the communities through partnership, persuasion, performance, and advocacy. For more information about the SBCCOG visit http://southbaycities.org. 

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