LKQ UK & Ireland invests in solar to reduce emissions
LKQ UK & Ireland has successfully installed nearly 6,500 solar panels on the roof of its central logistics hub, as it pushes ahead with LKQ Corporation’s global goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
The 2,948 kilowatt peak (kWp) solar array system will allow the business to offset energy consumption at its T2 facility in Tamworth by up to 32%.
The installation, by environmental consultancy Footprint Zero, covers the roof of the 792,000 ft2 T2 building.
The site, which is one of the largest commercial buildings in the UK, holds more than 100,000 SKUs, sends out more than 55,000 orders daily and services 40,000-plus garages across the UK every week.
LKQ estimated the move has the potential to prevent the emission of 12,554 tonnes of CO2 over the system’s 25-year lifespan — the equivalent of taking almost 3,000 passenger vehicles off the road for one year.
The project is the latest in a series of investments by LKQ UK & Ireland into reducing its scope 1 and 2 emissions. Scope 1 includes direct emissions from sources owned or controlled by the company, such as burning fuel in vehicles or factories. Scope 2 includes indirect emissions, such as electricity drawn from the grid.
‘Sustainable growth’
The measures have included the installation of LED lights in 188 of its branches and warehouses to improve energy efficiency, and a pilot scheme for the use of e-scooters and cargo pedal bikes to deliver stock to customers across London and the South of England.
Kevan Wooden, chief executive officer at LKQ UK and Ireland, said: “We recognise the important role we have to play in driving sustainable growth, across our own business and when it comes to helping our customers to operate more sustainably. As market leader, it’s our responsibility to lead the way and share what we learn as we do.
“Operating sustainably isn’t just the right thing to do for the planet; it makes good business sense too, by bringing about efficiencies that will ultimately deliver a return on the upfront investment.
“Globally, our purpose, mission and values align with sustainable business practices that are good for business, people, and the environment, enabling us to not only be contributors to but leaders of the circular economy.”