Lincolnshire Co-op undertakes a significant solar panel installation project, investing more than £2m at 62 new sites.
- Previously, the retailer operated 11 solar-powered sites, generating 225,000 kWh annually.
- The new installations are projected to produce an additional 1.8 million kWh of solar energy each year.
- Buildings equipped with solar panels will use approximately 30% of energy from solar, reducing CO2 emissions by 10%.
- The full project involves multiple sustainability initiatives, including LED lighting and advanced management systems.
Lincolnshire Co-op is making a substantial investment of over £2 million to expand its solar panel installations across 62 additional sites. This initiative marks a significant step forward for the retailer, which previously managed 11 sites generating a combined total of 225,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) annually. With these new installations, the cooperative anticipates generating an additional 1.8 million kWh a year, underscoring its commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
Currently, the Co-op operates stores in several locations equipped with solar panels, including Scawby, Morton Bourne, Barrowby in Grantham, Barnetby le Wold, Springfield Road in Grantham, Clipstone, Keelby, and Skellingthorpe Road in Lincoln. These stores are expected to operate using approximately 30% solar energy, which will significantly contribute to the reduction of Lincolnshire Co-op’s overall indirect CO2 emissions by an estimated 10%.
Energy savings experts at SOL PV Group collaborated with Lincolnshire Co-op to bring the first eight sites into operation. The full completion of this project with the addition of 54 more sites is scheduled for summer 2025, with the majority being food stores.
Will Tucker, the sustainability adviser for Lincolnshire Co-op, highlighted the importance of this investment, stating, “Fitting an additional 62 sites with solar panels is a significant investment, and demonstrates Lincolnshire Co-op’s commitment to a greener future. Making life better in our communities is at the heart of everything we do and caring for our local environment is a vital element of that.”
In addition to solar energy, Lincolnshire Co-op has implemented other eco-friendly measures. The retailer has introduced LED lighting, management systems to optimise heating and lighting, and installed fridge doors in most stores. These measures collectively result in a 27% reduction in electricity usage for refrigeration, showcasing the Co-op’s dedication to operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Moreover, the retailer has extended a partnership with Retail Insight to tackle food waste across its stores. This collaboration focuses on deploying an enhanced version of the Waste Trim feature, which is designed to optimise stock assortment and minimise overstocking, further reducing food waste.
The comprehensive solar panel expansion initiative by Lincolnshire Co-op represents a decisive move towards sustainability and operational efficiency.
