THE NETHERLANDS - Lidl is taking significant steps in its sustainability efforts and is quickly establishing itself as a pioneer in the industry. The retailer recently opened its very first net zero emissions store, known as Lidl Zero, in The Netherlands. The solar-powered store went through an extensive development phase to ensure its zero emissions status.

“A key objective of ‘Lidl Zero’ is that this pilot store benefits from a solar system, producing 100 percent of the store’s energy demand,” Arnold Baas, Manager Energiezaken at Lidl Nederland GmbH, commented.

BayWa RE, a construction engineering company, teamed up with a Dutch construction partner to work on developing the new store, installing the car ports—overhead canopies covering parking areas—and Photovoltaic (PV) panels, utilizing BayWa RE’s roof mounting system, according to Renewable Energy News.

“To guarantee enough solar power to cover the store’s energy needs throughout the year, we carried out an extensive feasibility study including shade analysis, as the premises of the store borders on a wooded area,” BayWa RE Power Solutions Managing Director Christof Thannbichler said.

pv magazine reports that this first Lidl Zero store uses innovative climate technology, solar photovoltaic electricity generation, product cooling, and a fast charger for electric cars. The new store has reportedly been in operation for a few weeks.

“Taking in all the data and criteria for this specific location, our expert team then designed a 290kW system on the store roof, and a separate car port structure to house an additional 257kW system," Christof Thannbichler continued. "Furthermore, a DC fast charging point for electric cars has been set up on site as well.”

With the successful unveiling of its first Lidl Zero store, will the retailer consider rolling out the eco-friendly format to more regions? Keep reading AndNowUKnow to find out.

Lidl Netherlands