Project Overview
The conception of the Maynooth store acts as a pilot project to demonstrate the feasibility of Net Zero operations in the retail sector. Lawler Consulting plays a pivotal role in this endeavour, providing expertise in design and energy optimisation.
The project timeline for the Maynooth store highlights the efficient and coordinated efforts involved in its development.
Construction work commenced on 10th February, marking the beginning of a comprehensive build phase. Following significant progress, the fit-out process will then began on 27th October, setting the stage for the final preparations. Sales activities are scheduled to start on 31st October, leading up to the official store opening on 6th November 2025.
Some of our key contributions included:
- Full Design & Project Management of the Mechanical & Electrical Services.
- Producing Part L compliance report.
- Energy Modelling and Simulation: Conducting comprehensive energy analyses to inform design decisions.
- Providing documentation to indicate general compliance of design with building regulations and other statutory requirements
- Providing advice to Lidl throughout the project on cost reduction through value engineering the re-use of materials.
- Preparing Building Control Regulations M&E inspection plan and M&E input into the Certificate of Compliance Design.
- Producing BER Certificate and advisory report
Sustainable Design Features
The Maynooth store incorporates several innovative features aimed at minimising its environmental footprint. These features include:
- Solar Energy: Installation of rooftop and carport solar panels to generate renewable electricity on-site.
- High-Efficiency HVAC Systems: Deployment of advanced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to optimise energy use. Heat pump is also installed which removes the requirement for fossil fuel.
- LED Lighting: Use of energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the facility.
- Enhanced Insulation: Improved building envelope to reduce heat loss and gain, enhancing overall energy efficiency.
- Battery storage: For emergency backup and surplus storage from the solar PV system. The battery will also provide the ability to support Ireland’s electricity grid.
- Green spaces & Biodiversity garden supporting biodiversity, improving air quality, and promoting community well-being.
- Electric vehicle and bike charging infrastructure available.
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- Lidl Maynooth before
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- Lidl Maynooth after
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- Lidl Maynooth before
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- Lidl Maynooth after
Impact and Significance
The implementation of the features above is expected to reduce the operational expenditure (OPEX) of the Maynooth store by 82%, allowing extensive cost savings for the retailer.
The Lidl Maynooth store is expected to achieve savings of:
- 556,000kWh annually
- 426 tonnes of Co2 in one year
- 4,970 tonnes of Co2 in 33 years
What does it actually mean? What is the actual impact?
While these numbers might sound abstract to many, there is a real impact behind them.
556,000 kWh:
According to the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), the average Irish household consumes approximately 4,200 kWh of electricity annually.
By dividing the total electricity savings (556,000 kWh) by the average annual consumption per household (4,200 kWh), we get approximately 130.
Meaning that, every year, Lidl Maynooth will save enough electricity to power around 130 Irish homes.
4,970 tonnes of Co2
According to Teagasc, the Agriculture and Food Development Authority in Ireland, a native woodland forest absorbs between 2.5 and 4.5 tonnes of cO2 per hectare per year
let’s take an average of 3.5,
4,970/3.5 = 1,420 (number of Hectares to absorb 4,970 tonnes of Co2 in a year).
1420/33 = 43 (number of hectares needed to absorb that much over 33 years)
taking Teagasc’s scenario of a density of 1,100 trees per hectares (minimum distance of 3×3 between trees)
then 43*1,100= 47,300
As a result, saving 4,970 tonnes of CO2 is the equivalent of what approximately 47,300 native Irish trees would absorb over the same period of time (33 years)
In summary, 4,970 tonnes of CO₂ saved isn’t just a number: it’s cleaner air, cooler summers, and a fairer future. It’s climate action in real terms: right here, right now.
This project sets a precedent for sustainable retail development in Ireland. By achieving net zero carbon status, the Maynooth store will serve as a model for future initiatives, demonstrating the viability of integrating sustainability into commercial operations. and encouraging others to do the same.
Lawler Consulting’s involvement underscores the importance of expert guidance in setting ambitious environmental targets. Our comprehensive approach is designed to ensure that the project will not only meet but exceed performance expectations.
Looking Ahead
The Maynooth store’s commitment to sustainability sets a precedent for broader adoption of sustainable practices within Lidl Ireland’s operations. Lawler Consulting continues to collaborate with the retailer on various projects, reinforcing their commitment to environmental stewardship.
As Ireland progresses towards its climate goals, partnerships like this exemplify the collaborative efforts necessary to drive meaningful change. The Maynooth project aims to demonstrate what can be achieved when innovation and sustainability converge.
For more information on our projects and services across various industries, visit our website: Lawler Consulting
Do you have a project in mind and don’t know where to start? Contact us to get started!
