In a significant move toward achieving its carbon neutrality goal by 2035, Tesco has signed the UK's largest corporate Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for solar energy. The 15-year agreement, facilitated by EDF, will secure 65% of the energy produced by Cleve Hill Solar Park, located in Faversham, Kent. Cleve Hill, developed by Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners, is the largest solar and battery storage project in the UK with a capacity of 373 megawatts (MW). The project is set to begin operations in early 2025 and will provide up to 10% of Tesco's electricity needs in the UK.

Tesco’s Group Chief Executive, Ken Murphy, expressed excitement over the agreement, calling it "a significant step in our journey towards carbon neutrality across our own operations by 2035." He further highlighted the project's impact, stating, "Cleve Hill solar park, with its ability to generate up to 10% of our UK electricity demand, is a key part of the renewable energy strategy in the UK."

The solar park will feature over 560,000 solar panels and energy storage infrastructure, producing enough energy annually to power 144 large Tesco stores. The initiative plays a critical role in supporting the UK’s renewable energy goals, particularly as the country aims for net-zero carbon emissions. The partnership with Quinbrook and EDF reflects Tesco’s ongoing commitment to sourcing green electricity and advancing sustainable energy projects.

Quinbrook’s Managing Director, Keith Gains, praised Tesco's involvement, saying, "Tesco’s commitment to Cleve Hill Solar Park underscores the value of the project which has set new benchmarks for UK solar."

Matthew Nunn, Director of EDF Business Solutions, also commended the collaboration: "We’re proud to be working in partnership with Tesco and Quinbrook...to guarantee a reliable source of clean and affordable energy."

This project is Tesco’s latest in a series of green energy initiatives, with its portfolio now covering 45% of its expected 2030 electricity demand in the UK, solidifying its leadership in the transition to renewable energy.