Solar-powered warehouse opens in Kent e-commerce hub
A logistics warehouse powered by a solar panel roof has opened in the e-commerce hub of Dartford.
The 500,000 square foot site at Crossways Commercial Park offers state-of-the-art facilities for customers across retail and logistics and is split into three units.
The property is the first in owner Goodman's portfolio to feature a full rooftop array of solar photovoltaics (PV) across each building.
The 2.2MW system will generate a combined annual power output of almost two million kWh which equivalent to removing 435 tons of carbon from the atmosphere.
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George Glennie, development director at Goodman, said: “Crossways Commercial Park is a prime example of Goodman’s global focus on delivering sustainable properties that utilise the latest innovations in design, construction and energy generation.
“Not only is it our most sustainable property in the UK, but it sets a standard for future properties we will be developing. Its strategic location is also set to drive supply chain efficiencies for our customers, placing them closer to consumers which in turn drives down transport emissions.”
Goodman's say the warehouse is designed to support customers in decarbonising their operations.
The building has solar thermal hot water, solar heating for office areas, electric vehicle (EV) charging points, infrastructure for EV fleets, rainwater harvesting and smart metering.
Gavin Cleary, CEO at Locate in Kent, said, “We welcome this outstanding new facility in Dartford. Goodman is not only meeting the demand for high quality, well connected space in Kent, but is also responding to the very strong desire from international companies to have sustainable, environmentally-conscious and future-facing facilities in the UK.
“This investment once again demonstrates why Kent is perfectly placed for logistics and distribution companies wishing to expand operations and maximise their potential.”