Co-op, a leading UK retailer, has successfully completed a significant solar panel project at its largest regional distribution centre, strategically serving over 600 stores across the south of England.
Located in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, this expansive 660,000 sq ft depot now boasts approximately 6,744 solar panels. This initiative aligns with Co-op’s commitment to enhance its procurement of renewable energy, marking a pivotal step in the company’s sustainability journey.
The newly installed solar panels are anticipated to generate about 2,500 MWh of renewable energy each year. This substantial output will directly support the operations of the depot, contributing to Co-op’s goals of reducing its carbon footprint. Consequently, this project exemplifies Co-op’s ambition to invest in sustainable energy solutions and actively combat climate change.
Heather Thomas, the Group Property and Sustainability Director at Co-op, remarked on this achievement: “The completion of the solar panel installation at our Biggleswade depot is a landmark moment for Co-op. This initiative underlines our dedication to sustainability and demonstrates how businesses can make impactful changes to protect the planet.”
Moreover, she emphasized, “By harnessing renewable energy, we are not only reducing emissions but also setting a strong example of best practice on how sustainable energy can be effectively integrated into day-to-day business operations.” Co-op remains committed to the belief that every business should actively contribute to the acceleration of the greening of the grid by minimizing energy demand and investing directly in renewable electricity generation.
Furthermore, this announcement underscores the significance of Co-op’s plans to expand its solar initiatives. The company aims to install solar panels across up to 700 sites within its food, funeral care, and logistics sectors over the next three years. This strategic move not only reinforces Co-op’s commitment to sustainability but also highlights its role as a leader in the adoption of renewable energy in the retail sector.
