15/10/2026
Powering 100+ sites for one of the UK's largest independent co-operatives ☀️
We're proud to share the results of our multi-site solar rollout with Central Co-operative (CEC), one of the UK's largest independent co-operative retailers, operating food stores, funeral services and travel agencies across the Midlands, East Anglia and the North West.
As a member-owned organisation with sustainability at its core, Central Co-op set out on an ambitious mission: reduce its carbon footprint at scale, across a hugely varied estate, from historic high street stores to modern retail parks.
Sol PV Group was appointed as their solar partner to deliver the full programme, 2022–2025.
The challenge:
Rolling out solar across 100+ trading locations meant navigating multiple DNO grid connections, working around live store operations, and adapting designs to a wide range of roof types and building ages, all while keeping quality and specification consistent estate-wide.
Our approach:
We built a standardised-yet-flexible design methodology, managing the entire programme in-house, feasibility surveys, grid applications, installation, commissioning and ongoing monitoring, working closely with Central Co-op's property and facilities teams to minimise disruption to staff and customers.
The results:
📍 106+ sites
⚡ 5.46 MWp total installed capacity
🔋 4,900 MWh generated annually
🌍 1,230 tonnes of CO₂ offset per year
🗺️ 3 regions across the UK
This programme is a great example of what's possible when standardisation meets flexibility, delivering consistent quality at scale while protecting a much-loved retailer against rising energy costs and reinforcing its ethical, community-first reputation.
