Renewable energy to help power estate of stores
STORES across the Scotmid Co-op estate will be supplied with green energy following a deal between five Co-ops and renewable electricity generation firm RWE.
Following on from an agreement of five independent society members – Scotmid Co-op, Lincolnshire Co-op, East of England Co-op, Souther Co-op and Central Co-op – and the energy firm, around 280 trading sites including Scotmid Co-op stores, Semichem retail outlets and Scotmid Funerals will be supplied by green energy sources.
Craig Strachan, chief financial officer at Scotmid Co-op, said: “At Scotmid, we are proud to join forces with other co-operatives through this innovative Corporate Power Purchase Agreement.
“This collaboration not only strengthens our commitment to sustainability but also ensures we are securing reliable, clean energy at predictable rates for the long-term benefit of our members and communities.
“By working together, we are not only taking meaningful steps towards reducing our carbon footprint but also contributing to the UK’s collective efforts to reach net-zero.
“This agreement exemplifies the power of co-operation and collective action in driving real change for a sustainable future.”
The 10-year long contract is set to provide up to 53 gigawatt hour of green electricity per year, which is enough to power over 400 retail stores, funeral homes, travel agents and more.
Sourced form the London Array offshore wind farm (pictured), this agreement will not only mean significant savings for the Co-op groups, but also continue to support the environment.
It will also mark a significant milestone in the Co-op’s journey towards sustainability and help to reduce the carbon footprint across these stores.
Olaf Lubenow, head of commodity solutions UK, North & South Europe of RWE Supply & Trading, said: “We are pleased to support these five independent Co-ops in their ambitious climate protection targets. This agreement shows how our clean energy solutions contribute to climate protection in all areas of the economy and ensure cost control by securing a long-term power price.”
