Landsec, the UK’s largest listed commercial property company, has unveiled the installation of the biggest solar photovoltaic (PV) system at a retail site in the UK. The installation, situated on the roof of the White Rose shopping centre in South Leeds, will generate 680,000 kWh of power a year, enough electricity to power over 200 UK homes for 12 months. The PV will supply 39% of the daytime electricity used in the mall areas of the centre.
In its first year, the system will reduce carbon emissions at White Rose by 250 tonnes; the equivalent of over half a million miles of passenger car emissions. It consists of 2,902 individual panels, each of which measures 1.6 m².
The PV will maximise on-site renewable energy generation, 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, said: “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 over a period of six weeks by EvoEnergy. Syzygy Renewables Ltd acted as project managers for Landsec.
Landsec is at the forefront of sustainable energy innovation in the UK property sector. Across its portfolio, nine assets have their own solar PV installed, each of which reduces energy consumption from the grid. Last year, it became the first property company in the UK to use 100% renewable electricity.
