Tesco enlists Solivus as part of commitment to install solar panels on 100 large stores across UK

Solivus has been awarded a contract for the engineering, procurement, construction, and installation of PV solar systems for Tesco’s Watford Extra store.

The six-week project will see close to 750 lightweight solar panels mounted by Solivus on the rooftop of the 80,000 sq ft store.

In the first year alone, the solar installation is expected to generate 339,506 kWh of electricity, delivering significant carbon savings. Using Solivus modelling, it is estimated that the installation will generate 10% of the store’s annual electricity requirements, reducing reliance on grid electricity.

The project forms part of Tesco’s wider commitment to installing solar panels on 100 of its large stores across the UK, helping increase the proportion of renewable electricity that comes from direct sourcing. .

Bianca Samarakoon, Group Head of Energy at Tesco, says: “Working with innovative suppliers is key to unlocking some of the challenges we face on our journey to net zero. Our partnership with Solivus will allow us to use lightweight solar panels where traditional solar isn’t feasible, helping us to move closer to our goal of carbon neutrality across our own operations by 2035.”   

Jo Parker-Swift, CEO and founder at Solivus, says: “It’s now well understood that for the UK to achieve net zero by 2050 requires an unprecedented level of investment in clean energy. This project follows Solivus delivering on several major commercial premises such as stadiums and airports.”

“Clients choose us due to our innovative and straightforward client centred approach. We are super proud and excited to play a role in supporting Tesco’s pioneering clean energy transition and hope it may serve as a blueprint for further stores and the wider retail market.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Green retail will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.