Sainsbury’s has launched its most energy-efficient supermarket, which is projected to use only half the energy of a similar-sized Sainsbury’s store and around 25% less electricity.
The new flagship store from the second largest retailer in the UK, opened in Hook, Hampshire.
The 25,000 sq ft supermarket utilises an array of energy-saving features.
It operates using 100% renewable electricity and will not rely on any fossil fuels.
The store is also part of a new trial that uses doors on chilled cabinets, keeping cold air in, and reducing their energy demands by up to 60%.
About two-thirds of the energy consumed will be reused by the cold aisle retrieval system, and the roof features over 700 solar panels, which are expected to provide up to 300 megawatt hours (MWh) of energy for the store per year.
The improvements in the store’s efficient energy design are part of Sainsbury’s wider commitment to becoming Net Zero in its own operations by 2035.
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Sainsbury’s currently operates with 100% renewable electricity and by the end of 2023 the retailer projects that up to 40% of its electricity will come from new-to-the-planet wind and solar power.
The news comes as Sainsbury’s has unveiled its first store that will deliver groceries to customers using a fully electric delivery fleet.
“I’m immensely proud of everyone at Sainsbury’s who has helped to deliver what is a ground-breaking new store for us, the learnings from which will be used in future store investments,” Sainsbury’s property director Patrick Dunne said.
“Sainsbury’s Hook is the culmination of many years of innovation, hard work and progress towards a more sustainable future for our business.
Sainsbury’s Hook store manager Ryan Cox said: “We have thoroughly enjoyed welcoming customers through the doors of our brand-new store and we look forward to getting to know many of them as we become an integral part of the local community.
“This is a really proud moment for Sainsbury’s as we launch a brilliant new supermarket that puts our commitment to reducing our impact on the environment into clear focus while serving and helping customers in Hook.”
