This agreement represents a major milestone for the Irish retail sector by significantly increasing the solar energy capacity of the supermarket chain’s largest stores across the country.
Under the partnership, Greenvolt Next Ireland will install 5 MW of renewable energy capacity across 12 Tesco locations, strengthening the retailer’s energy transition strategy. Together with smaller-scale projects already in operation, the new systems will generate approximately 4.4 GWh of clean electricity annually. This output will help avoid thousands of tons of carbon emissions and reinforce Tesco’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint while consolidating its position as a sustainability leader in Irish retail.
So far, Greenvolt Next Ireland has installed more than 2,000 solar panels at Tesco Extra stores in Liffey Valley and Naas. In addition, photovoltaic systems have recently been deployed at Tesco Extra stores in Dundalk, Clearwater, and Arklow, as well as at Superstores in Carrick-on-Shannon and Ballybeg. These projects are being delivered under a 26-year power purchase agreement (PPA), which ensures that Tesco has long-term access to affordable, renewable energy without requiring upfront investment.
According to the company, the solar installations can supply up to 20% of each store’s electricity needs. This not only lowers operational costs but also eases pressure on Ireland’s national grid. At the same time, the initiative contributes to the government’s efforts to meet the European Union’s carbon reduction targets.
Tesco and Greenvolt Next are already planning to expand this initiative further. Studies are underway to roll out solar power to an additional 26 stores, including the retailer’s distribution center in Ballymun. Other sites scheduled for installation this year include stores in Mitchelstown, Nenagh, New Ross, and Tullow.
Supported by Greenvolt Group’s pan-European platform, Greenvolt Next offers a broad portfolio of decentralized renewable energy solutions. These include photovoltaic systems for individual and collective self-consumption, energy efficiency projects, solar storage, and e-mobility solutions. A key differentiator lies in its flexible financing models, such as long-term PPAs, which enable businesses to access low-cost, predictable renewable energy while avoiding significant upfront investment.
With this partnership, Tesco and Greenvolt Next Ireland are showcasing how the private sector can play a significant role in driving the energy transition. By combining technological innovation with environmental responsibility, both companies are setting an example for large-scale adoption of clean energy solutions, supporting Ireland’s pathway toward a more sustainable future.
Paulo Lopes is a multi-talent Portuguese citizen who made his Master of Economics in Switzerland and studied law at Lusófona in Lisbon - CEO of Casaiberia in Lisbon and Algarve.
English