Landsec has unveiled the installation of the biggest solar photovoltaic (PV) system at a retail site in the UK. The facility, situated on the roof of the White Rose shopping centre in Leeds, will produce 680,000 kWh of power a year, enough electricity to power up to 200 UK houses for 12 months. The PV will provide 39% of the daytime electricity used in the mall areas of the centre.
The system will decrease carbon emissions at White Rose by 250 tonnes; it is the equivalent of over half a million miles of passenger vehicle emissions. It consists of 2,902 single panels, each of which measures 1.6 m².
The PV will maximise on-site renewable energy production, reduce electricity consumption from the grid and deliver significant financial benefits to retailers based at White Rose. It forms a key part of the ongoing sustainability strategy at the centre, which includes a comprehensive bio-diversity programme alongside energy efficiency measures and a focus on reducing food waste.
Scott Parsons, Managing Director, Retail, Landsec, stated: “We are extremely proud to have set a UK-wide benchmark for renewable electricity. Landsec is committed to setting and achieving ambitious sustainability targets, and this is a fantastic example of how innovative thinking can benefit both retailers and the environment.”
The PV was installed by EvoEnergy and Syzygy Renewables Ltd as project managers for Landsec.
