ALDI, Leamington Spa

The ALDI Eco Concept Store in Leamington, was a first for its innovative designs, sustainable building materials, green roofing & solar PV technology. The project was aimed to reduce carbon emissions, energy consumption and operational costs whilst providing an excellent retail environment.

 

At the beginning of the project, there were challenges in regards to the integration of the solar PV system to the pitched membrane roofing. Ensuring a structural connection to the cross-laminated timber (CLT) roof structure and maintaining thermal integrity of the structure were important.

 

NICHOLSON® met these challenges with the ROOFTRAK® IFP300 Integrated Fixing Point with thermally broken fixings to substrate layer. This product provides 100% waterproof connection, total compatibility with waterproofing membrane while maintaining the thermal integrity of the insulation layer…the challenge was overcome. Through the innovative designs the store has reduced the overall energy demand by 57% compared with a normal store.

 

This store has become a model for low-carbon store designs, inspiring other similar initiatives across the country. The project highlights the feasibility and benefits of integrating solar PV technology into commercial applications.