Major supermarket chain's unique approach to the environment

• Lidl is the first supermarket in the Czech Republic to use economic and environmental technologies
• A smart solution for heating, lighting, but also food cooling
• Use of active ventilation with heat recovery and rainwater utilisation

Shopping chains are catching on to the benefits of running eco-friendly businesses. But one chain, Lidl, is forging ahead with a diverse environmental programme as demonstrated in its Průhonice property in the Czech Republic. The store uses heat pumps for heating, ecological refrigeration, energy-efficient LED lighting and an active ventilation system with heat recovery.

The Lidl store in Průhonice is proof that an older property can be transformed into a modern supermarket using a variety of economic and environmentally friendly technologies. For example, the store's heat pumps are connected to underfloor heating and ventilation takes care of an active heat recovery system connected to CO2 sensors in the air.

Key results

Cooling systems have also undergone a big change; the shop now uses far more propane for the environment instead of non-organic refrigerants. The shop, illuminated by energy-efficient LEDs, also includes a waste recycling system and rainwater capture technology.

The new shop in Průhonice is a good example of a modern supermarket designed with regard to energy savings and eco-friendly operation. The company now plans to follow this model in its other properties across the Czech Republic.