VARUS will install solar panels on 48 stores: they will cover 95% of consumption during the day

The VARUS supermarket chain has launched a large-scale project to install solar power plants on the roofs of 48 of its 115 facilities. This was reported by the company's press service.

The initial cost of the project was UAH 150 million, although at the current stage the amount has been adjusted to about UAH 100 million.

VARUS expects the costs to be paid off in just two years, and after that, the project will save the company about UAH 50 million annually on electricity.

The planned generation of solar power plants is 21% of the annual consumption of stores.

The project was launched in May 2025 and envisages that supermarkets will be able to generate more than 5 million kWh of electricity per year. The total capacity will reach 4,800 kWh .

The panels are installed so that they cover up to 95% of electricity consumption during the day. At night, however, the stores are still connected to the general power grid.

The company deliberately refused to install batteries because it would have made the project three times more expensive and extended the payback period to seven years, the press service added.

VARUS explains that it is better to consume the energy produced immediately than to store it, as it is more cost-effective.

To monitor solar stations, the company has implemented an online monitoring system. If problems arise, the system immediately signals an accident, which allows for a quick response and calls the service department.

VARUS says that solar stations will now become the standard for all new stores. In addition, the company plans to install gas diesel generator sets.

• Novus is also installing solar panels on the roofs of its supermarkets. Dainius Tumenas, Deputy CEO for Asset Management of the company, estimated the payback period at 2.5 years.