Tesco’s Watford Extra store is to be fitted with PV solar systems as part of the retailer’s switch to more renewable energy sources.
The business is working with Solivus, a company specialising in lightweight solar panel installation, which was a necessary move considering the weight restriction on the roof of this particular site.
Putting the PV solar systems on the Watford store is expected to help generate an estimated 10% of the site’s overall annual electricity demand. Solivus has been tasked with the engineering, procurement, construction, and installation of PV solar systems, and the six-week project will see circa 750 lightweight solar panels mounted on the rooftop of the 80,000 sq ft store.
Bianca Samarakoon, group head of energy at Tesco, commented: “Working with innovative suppliers is key to unlocking some of the challenges we face on our journey to net zero.
“Our partnership with Solivus will allow us to use lightweight solar panels where traditional solar isn’t feasible, helping us to move closer to our goal of carbon neutrality across our own operations by 2035.”
Many of Tesco’s existing buildings encounter structural challenges such as weight restrictions making traditional rooftop solar installations impractical, but Solivus offers a lightweight alternative that organisations such as BP, Balfour Beatty, and Farnborough Airport have taken advantage of in recent months.
Jo Parker-Swift, CEO & founder of Solivus, remarked: “It’s now well understood that for the UK to achieve net zero by 2050 requires an unprecedented level of investment in clean energy.
“This project follows Solivus delivering on several major commercial premises such as stadiums and airports. Clients choose Solivus due to our innovative and straightforward client centred approach.”
She added: “We are super proud and excited to play a role in supporting Tesco’s pioneering clean energy transition and hope it may serve as a blueprint for further stores and the wider retail market.”
[image credit: Green Retail World]
