Revolutionary Lightweight Solar Project at Tesco Watford Extra

Hello, Champions of Net Zero!

In a significant step towards achieving sustainability and reducing carbon emissions, Solivus, a trailblazer in the realm of lightweight, flexible solar solutions, has been awarded a pivotal contract to enhance the renewable energy landscape at Tesco’s Watford Extra store. This innovative partnership marks a noteworthy advancement in Tesco’s ongoing commitment to expand its renewable energy portfolio across the UK.

The ambitious six-week project will see nearly 750 lightweight solar panels installed on the expansive rooftop of the 80,000 square foot Watford store. This state-of-the-art installation is not just a win for Tesco but also a remarkable example of how modern technology can be harnessed to meet the pressing challenges of climate change.

In the inaugural year, the solar array is projected to generate an impressive 339,506 kWh of electricity, contributing significantly to carbon savings. Solivus’s advanced modelling indicates that this installation will supply approximately 10 per cent of the store’s annual electricity needs, thereby reducing Tesco’s reliance on traditional grid electricity. This is a vital step in Tesco’s strategy to not only lower emissions but also to enhance the sustainability of its operations.

This initiative is part of Tesco’s broader commitment to installing solar panels on 100 of its larger stores across the UK, reflecting the retailer’s dedication to increasing the proportion of renewable electricity sourced directly from onsite generation. Such efforts are crucial as the UK strives to meet its ambitious net zero target by 2050.

Bianca Samarakoon, Group Head of Energy at Tesco, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “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.”

Solivus has been chosen for this project due to its groundbreaking lightweight solar technology systems, which are particularly advantageous for buildings that face structural constraints such as weight limitations. Many of Tesco’s existing properties encounter similar challenges, making traditional solar panel installations impractical. Solivus’s innovative solutions enable Tesco to navigate these obstacles, facilitating more effective and efficient solar self-generation.

As the UK aims for a greener future, the significance of renewable energy cannot be overstated. It is a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, and initiatives like this will play an essential role in that transformation.

Jo Parker-Swift, CEO and founder of Solivus, emphasised the importance of investment in clean energy: “It’s now well understood that for the UK to achieve net zero by 2050, an unprecedented level of investment in clean energy is required. 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. 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.”

Tesco’s collaboration with Solivus is part of a growing trend among major corporations to seek sustainable solutions and reduce their carbon footprints. This year alone, several notable names have partnered with Solivus, including bp, Balfour Beatty, Farnborough Airport, and Astute Electronics, all in a bid to decarbonise their operations, maximise solar self-generation, and lessen their reliance on the grid.

As we continue to champion the cause of sustainability and work towards a net zero future, partnerships like that of Solivus and Tesco illuminate the path forward. They showcase how innovation and collaboration can foster a cleaner, greener world. Each solar panel installed not only contributes to local energy needs but also sends a powerful message about the importance of renewable energy in our fight against climate change.

For those eager to learn more about the innovative solutions offered by Solivus and their commitment to promoting clean energy, visit their website at www.solivus.com. Together, we can champion the transition to a sustainable future.