Lidl is focusing on renewable energy through photovoltaic systems on rooftops and nearly 100% green electricity*. In countries such as Austria, the energy transition is already visible on a local level: more than 100 stores generate their own solar power. Step by step, an ambitious goal is becoming everyday practice.
At Lidl Austria, the future of energy supply begins on the rooftops of Lidl stores. As soon as the morning sun rises, solar panels begin generating electricity – powering lighting, refrigeration and EV charging stations in the car park. Since 2021, Lidl Austria has been producing its own electricity in this way. Surplus energy is fed into the grid, contributing to the regional supply. A total of 109 stores in Austria are already part of this photovoltaic initiative, demonstrating how the energy transition can be implemented in everyday operations.
The transformation of our energy supply starts exactly where customers shop every day. Lidl has been investing in photovoltaic systems since 2016 and now operates them at more than 3,700 locations across Europe. This not only reduces our dependence on the public power grid, but also allows us to make productive use of surplus energy by feeding it into the grid and supporting the overall availability of green electricity. By 2024, the installed capacity of our solar systems had reached the high six-figure kilowatt-peak range, with almost 530,000 kWp.
"Whether through the continuous expansion of our own photovoltaic systems or by sourcing green electricity with guarantees of origin, we consistently rely on renewable energy to contribute to the energy transition and gradually replace fossil energy sources. At the same time, we continuously develop new concepts to further optimise the energy efficiency of our stores and warehouses."
In addition to our own generation, we cover nearly all of our electricity demand with renewable energy. Since 2022, Lidl has sourced 100% green electricity*. In the 2024 financial year, as much as 99.9% of our total electricity consumption came from renewable sources. Of this, 5.1% was generated through our own photovoltaic systems, while the remaining 94.9% was sourced through certified green electricity contracts.
The use of renewable energy is a tangible and measurable lever for climate protection – and a key component of our overarching strategy to further reduce operational emissions. Whether in Austria or at one of our thousands of locations across Europe, we are bringing a piece of the future to our rooftops every day.
* Excluding supply contracts beyond Lidl’s control, such as in individual leased properties with fixed electricity supply agreements. Further information can be found in the Schwarz Group’s Sustainability Report 2024
