Large-format retail stores are among the most energy-intensive building types in the UK. Refrigeration, lighting, and extended trading hours mean sites like this run near-continuously, with energy costs representing one of the largest operational overheads a retailer faces. Soaring energy costs have been a significant factor reshaping retail operations across the sector, pushing retailers to build renewable generation directly into new developments rather than absorb rising grid costs indefinitely.
Our client’s new Weymouth store forms part of the wider regeneration of Weymouth Gateway. The new building, which is more than twice the size of the existing Weymouth store, was designed to achieve a BREEAM Very Good rating, with rooftop solar PV specified as a key energy-limiting measure from the outset.
The project required a solar PV solution capable of making a meaningful contribution to the building’s energy demand from day one, while meeting the strict design, structural and aesthetic requirements of a high-profile new build retail development. The system needed to integrate cleanly within the BREEAM framework and support the client’s broader sustainability commitments, including its Plan A goal to reach net zero by 2040.
Carbon3 designed and installed a 45.43 kWp rooftop solar PV system across the new store. The system was specified to maximise roof coverage and generation potential while integrating with the building’s overall energy strategy. As with all Carbon3 new build installations, detailed upfront design work ensured the system aligned with structural requirements, avoided shading conflicts, and was installed without disruption to the wider construction programme.
The 45.43 kWp system generates clean electricity directly offsetting the store’s grid consumption, reducing operating costs and carbon emissions from the day the store opens.
The installation supports the development’s BREEAM Very Good target and contributes to our client’s estate-wide decarbonisation programme, demonstrating that high-footfall retail developments can embed meaningful renewable generation without compromise to build quality or programme.
Carbon3 works with developers and occupiers to integrate renewable energy into new build retail schemes from the earliest design stages, ensuring systems are optimised, compliant, and delivered without adding risk to the build programme.
We can do the same for your next development. Contact us today.
