Co-op embarks on an expansive solar panel installation project to enhance its green energy capabilities across its diverse operations.
- Over the next three years, Co-op will install solar panels at 700 sites, generating energy comparable to the needs of 12,500 homes.
- The initiative involves collaboration with Zestec Renewable Energy to strategically select suitable locations for solar panel deployment.
- This significant investment aligns with Co-op’s strategic objective to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2035 through renewable energy.
- Co-op’s renewable energy push is reinforced by a 15-year corporate power purchase agreement supporting their decarbonization journey.
Co-op has announced an ambitious plan to install solar panels across 700 of its sites over the coming three years. This initiative is part of their wider strategy to enhance its green energy production, aiming to generate 30,000 MWh of solar power, which is equivalent to the energy used by 12,500 homes.
The installation program will utilize approximately 76,000 solar panels and will cover diverse portfolios including food, funeral care, and logistics. This rollout represents a substantial commitment to sustainability and renewable energy.
In collaboration with Zestec Renewable Energy, Co-op’s property and procurement teams are tasked with identifying the most suitable sites for implementing these solar solutions. This partnership is crucial in ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of the installation process.
This solar project is a strategic move to reduce pressure on the national grid while advancing Co-op’s commitment to reaching Net Zero emissions by 2035. Heather Thomas, Co-op Group’s director of property and sustainability, emphasized that investing in onsite power generation is vital for transitioning to renewable and traceable energy sources.
Further solidifying their green energy agenda, Co-op has engaged in a new 15-year corporate power purchase agreement this year. This deal underscores Co-op’s continued efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and underscores their proactive approach to achieving decarbonization.
Co-op’s solar installation strategy exemplifies its commitment to a sustainable and energy-efficient future, marking a significant milestone towards achieving Net Zero by 2035.
