Sustainability News for November 11th
In this week’s Sustainability News for November 11th, we are excited to shine a light on three major initiatives that are helping shape a more sustainable future. Often, mainstream media focuses on the negative – partly due to human psychology – but we’re here to highlight the positives, to inspire and uplift our community to take action. From Tesco’s record-breaking solar project to a billion-pound retrofit of social housing, and finally, empowering local authorities to lead the energy transition, this week’s stories show that change is happening. Dive in and let these efforts spark your own ideas for awesome eco change!
Tesco Agrees Largest UK Corporate PPA for Solar Power
Tesco has made a groundbreaking move by signing the UK’s largest corporate Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), securing a deal for 65% of the energy generated by the Cleve Hill Solar Park. Located in Kent, Cleve Hill is the largest solar and battery storage project ever built in the UK, expected to provide up to 10% of Tesco’s UK electricity needs.
The solar park features over 560,000 solar panels, capable of powering the equivalent of 144 large Tesco stores annually. Tesco’s 15-year agreement is a key part of its goal to reach carbon neutrality by 2035. Ken Murphy, Tesco’s Group Chief Executive, said, “Cleve Hill solar park…is further evidence of our commitment to tackle climate change and source green electricity from innovative projects like this.”
With EDF and Quinbrook providing power-balancing services, this initiative highlights Tesco’s leadership in renewable energy solutions. It’s another exciting example of how businesses can make a significant difference in their climate strategies. Read on for another brilliant piece of sustainability news for November 11th!
New National Wealth Fund Backs Major Banks to Unlock £1bn for Social Housing Retrofit
The UK’s National Wealth Fund (NWF), in collaboration with Barclays and Lloyds Banking Group, has committed to unlocking £1bn for retrofitting social housing. This retrofit project is a crucial step in improving energy efficiency across the UK’s social housing sector, where 39% of homes currently hold an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating below C.
The funding will be split equally, with Barclays and Lloyds each delivering £500m in loans. Chancellor Rachel Reeves described the initiative as “only the start” of unlocking private investment to fuel the transition to greener homes.
By upgrading these homes, the project will not only reduce energy bills but also contribute to the UK’s broader net-zero ambitions. Lloyds’ CEO Charlie Nunn said, “Decarbonising our housing stock is critical for the transition to a low-carbon economy…we are enabling housing associations to improve energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness for residents.”
This mobilisation of capital is expected to make a major impact, creating warmer, greener, and more affordable homes for those in need. Don’t miss our final story of sustainability news for November 11th which is about empowering local authorities!
Local Net Zero 2.0: The Moment to Deliver
The UK100 report, Local Net Zero 2.0: The Moment to Deliver, calls for immediate reforms to help local authorities play a central role in the UK’s energy transition. The report outlines that buildings account for 17% of the UK’s emissions, making them a major challenge in the decarbonisation journey.
Local councils like Greater Manchester are leading the way, with ambitious Local Area Energy Plans and energy efficiency projects. However, UK100’s report argues that these efforts need to be scaled up with better funding and national-local collaboration. Christopher Hammond, chief executive of UK100, said: “Before the national grid, local authorities alongside private companies helped roll out electricity supply in our cities, towns and villages almost a century ago.”
The report warns that without urgent reforms, the UK may struggle to meet its 2050 net-zero target. It also highlights the need for long-term strategic investment and a consistent policy framework to empower local authorities to drive change. With electricity demand projected to rise by 64% by 2035, these changes are crucial for stabilising the grid and ensuring energy security.
Sustainability News for 11th November: Wrap-Up
This week’s Sustainability News for 11th November shines a spotlight on the bold actions being taken across industries and government bodies to accelerate the path to net-zero. From Tesco’s solar power milestone to the billion-pound investment in social housing, and empowering local councils to lead energy transitions, these stories show that fantastic eco change is happening right now.
As part of the Play It Green community, you’re already on the path to reducing your footprint. Let’s keep reducing emissions, repairing the planet and pushing for change. By continuing to support these efforts, we’re not just reacting to climate change; we’re being part of the solution. Together, we can create ripples of positive action that spread across the globe!
