Tesco has taken a significant step towards sustainability by securing a major solar energy deal poised to power 144 of its large stores across the UK.
In a groundbreaking move, Tesco has committed to acquiring nearly two-thirds of the electricity generated by the Cleve Hill solar park in Kent. The £450 million solar project, developed by Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners, promises to deliver up to 10% of Tesco’s electricity needs over the next 15 years.
This initiative, considered ‘the largest solar corporate power purchase agreement ever agreed in the UK’, is not just a notable development for Tesco but also a substantial contribution to the UK’s renewable energy landscape. Over 560,000 solar panels will be installed at the Cleve Hill site, with EDF stepping in to provide essential power balancing and shaping services. Construction of the solar farm commenced early last year, and it is expected to become operational by the beginning of the upcoming year.
Ken Murphy, Tesco’s CEO, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, ‘We’re delighted to be announcing such a significant step in our journey towards carbon neutrality across our own operations by 2035. With its ability to provide vital energy storage infrastructure, it’s a key part of the renewable energy strategy in the UK, and further evidence of our commitment to tackle climate change and source green electricity from innovative projects like this.’
This move is part of Tesco’s broader strategy over the past five years to source green electricity directly from various wind farms and solar parks across the UK. With the addition of the Cleve Hill project, Tesco aims to meet 45% of its anticipated electricity demands through power purchase agreements by 2030.
This announcement comes shortly after Sainsbury’s revealed its increased use of renewable energy following the completion and commissioning of the Pines Burn Wind Farm in the Scottish Borders. Sainsbury’s has pledged to procure 100% of the renewable energy it produces over the next 15 years, signifying a strong shift towards sustainable energy among UK supermarkets.
Tesco’s strategic investment in solar energy marks a pivotal moment in its commitment to sustainability, setting a precedent for renewable energy adoption within the retail sector.
