Loblaw to install Canada’s largest rooftop solar system at Ontario distribution centre

Loblaw Companies Limited is moving ahead with plans to install the country’s largest rooftop solar system at its East Gwillimbury Distribution Centre.

The 7.5-megawatt system, set to be operational in 2026, will span approximately 435,000 square feet and is expected to generate over 8.5 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. The installation will provide up to 25 per cent of the facility’s total power consumption.

“From the moment we began construction on our East Gwillimbury Distribution Centre, we knew we needed to take full advantage of the rooftop space to generate clean, renewable energy for the facility,” said Tom Marson, vice-president, building technology and energy, Loblaw Companies Limited. “This solar installation will work alongside several other sustainable features at the DC, including fully electric shunt trucks, and advanced building energy management systems.”

“This installation clearly demonstrates our commitment to taking decisive action as we work to achieve net-zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2040 for our enterprise operating footprint,” he added.

The project will be developed, owned and operated by Great Circle Solar, which has partnered with Loblaw on over 90 distributed energy initiatives since 2012.

“This marque project will be operational in 2026. It is by far the largest of its kind ever contracted in Canada and one of the largest on a single rooftop in North America. It marks a significant milestone in our important partnership with Loblaw,” said Clarke Herring, president, Great Circle Solar. “For over a decade, we’ve worked side by side to bring renewable energy solutions to communities across Canada. Loblaw’s continued leadership and long-term commitment to clean renewable energy is consistent and evident.”