PLANS to install renewable energy batteries at the B&Q distribution centre in Swindon have been unveiled by parent company Kingfisher in a bid to cut power consumption.

The base uses 3.5 megawatts per year on average and is already powered by energy from 552 solar panels on the roof. Currently, around 35 per cent is exported back to the grid as surplus. But the batteries will allow it to be stored and used by the building during peak periods.

Chief executive of B&Q UK and Ireland Christian Mazauric said the firm was committed to cutting its carbon footprint by 90 per cent. So far it had managed a 41 per cent reduction while electricity demand had dropped by 47 per cent.

He said: “The installation of energy storage batteries at the Swindon distribution centre marks an important milestone in our and Kingfisher’s commitment to reduce grid energy consumption.

“UK energy prices aren’t going down. Battery energy storage will help us to better manage the energy we generate on site and will move us even closer to our sustainability goals.”

Each rack of batteries is the size of a large domestic fridge-freezer. They will be able to store 40 per cent of the power generated by the solar roof panels. The system will also power electric car charging points in the car park.

Solarcentury will manage the installation, maintenance and monitoring systems and the scheme is expected to be completed in early September.

Head of energy and renewables, Jeremy Parsons, said: “This investment at our Swindon distribution centre reflects our wider approach to energy strategy to help both our business and our customers improve energy efficiency.

“Indeed, many of the energy saving initiatives we have undertaken in our stores and distribution centres are also being considered by our customers. For example, we are seeing more customers installing solar PVs and moving to battery storage to harness that power for their homes.”