Loblaw Powers Up With Canada's Largest Rooftop Solar System

Loblaw Companies Limited is set to install Canada's largest rooftop solar system at its East Gwillimbury Distribution Centre in Ontario. This significant renewable energy initiative will feature a 7.5 MW installation covering approximately 435,000 square feet, aiming to generate over 8,500,000 kWh of clean energy annually and meet up to 25% of the facility's total electricity needs.

Key Takeaways

• Loblaw is installing Canada's largest rooftop solar system at its East Gwillimbury Distribution Centre.

• The system will be 7.5 MW, covering 435,000 square feet, and is expected to generate over 8,500,000 kWh annually.

• This project is a significant step towards Loblaw's net-zero goals, aiming for net-zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2040.

• Loblaw is partnering with Great Circle Solar, a company it has worked with since 2012 on over 90 renewable energy projects.

• The installation is scheduled to be operational in 2026.

A Major Leap in Renewable Energy

Loblaw's East Gwillimbury Distribution Centre will soon be home to Canada's largest rooftop solar system. The expansive 7.5 MW installation will cover an area equivalent to more than seven football fields, demonstrating a substantial commitment to renewable energy. This project is designed to generate over 8,500,000 kWh of clean, on-site power each year, contributing significantly to the facility's energy consumption and supporting Loblaw's broader environmental objectives.

Commitment to Sustainability

Tom Marson, VP of Building Technology & Energy at Loblaw Companies Limited, highlighted the strategic importance of the solar installation. "From the moment we began construction on our East Gwillimbury Distribution Centre, we knew we needed to take full advantage of the rooftop space to generate clean, renewable energy for the facility," Marson stated. He further emphasized that this solar array will complement other sustainable features at the distribution centre, such as fully-electric shunt trucks and advanced building energy management systems. This initiative is a key component of Loblaw's commitment to achieving net-zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2040.

Partnership and Future Operations

Loblaw is collaborating with Great Circle Solar, a recognized leader in Canadian renewable energy, for the development, ownership, and operation of this landmark project. The two companies have a long-standing relationship, having partnered on more than 90 distributed energy solutions across Canada since 2012. Clarke Herring, President of Great Circle Solar, expressed enthusiasm for the project, calling it "by far the largest of its kind ever contracted in Canada and one of the largest on a single rooftop in North America." The system is slated to become operational in 2026, marking a significant milestone in their partnership.

Loblaw's Environmental Track Record

Loblaw has a nearly two-decade history of commitment to combating climate change. In 2024 alone, the company achieved a 16% reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions compared to a 2020 baseline. This was supported by an investment of over $40 million in more than 500 carbon reduction projects. Further details on Loblaw's sustainability efforts can be found in their 2024 Live Life Well® Report.

Sources

• Loblaw to Install Canada's Largest Rooftop Solar System, Yahoo.co.