Co-op ramps up solar drive with plans to install panels on 700 sites

Co-op has revealed ambitious plans to install solar panels on up to 700 sites across its food, funeralcare and logistics portfolio over the next three years.

In a move that could see 76,000 solar panels rolled out, the convenience retailer said it aimed to deliver 30,000 MWh of solar energy – enough to power the equivalent of around 12,500 homes for a year. 

During the next 12 months, Co-op’s property and procurement teams will work with its development partner, Zestec Renewable Energy, to audit the business’ portfolio and identify suitable sites for solar construction and installation.

Custom Solar, one of the UK’s largest solar PV developers, will then work with Zestec and Co-op to design, develop and install the PV systems across the sites.

Co-op said the plans formed part of its commitment to become net zero across its own operations by 2035, which would be enhanced by its other solar panel projects.

In April, the retailer signed a 15-year deal to power the equivalent of 55 food stores with renewable energy produced from a solar farm in Coldham, Cambridgeshire. It was the result of a new Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with ScottishPower Renewables.

Co-op has also signed another 15-year contract to take the entire output of a 34-megawatt solar farm located in North Yorkshire. This is set to be fully operational in 2025 and expected to produce 7.5% of Co-op’s electricity.

“Our investment in onsite power generation across our estate is part of Co-op’s commitment to playing its role in the transition to net zero,” said Co-op group property & sustainability director Heather Thomas. “This project, alongside increasing our investment in corporate power purchase agreements, is crucial to guaranteeing that the energy we use in our operations is renewable and traceable.”

Zestec chief operations officer Toby Smith said: “We’re thrilled to be supporting Co-op on this important programme. This key milestone shows how funded on-site PPAs are a powerful way to make meaningful and scalable inroads towards net zero.

“As part of the Octopus group, Zestec will provide the funding, development, and operational management of this solar portfolio. We look forward to working with the teams and turning this important ambition into a reality.”