Sainsbury’s has opened what it claims is Britain’s most environmentally friendly convenience store.

The store, in Haslucks Green, Solihull, is packed with eco-friendly features including 42 solar panels on the roof to generate electricity; energy-efficient LED lighting; and signage made from recycled materials.

Natural refrigeration reduces carbon emissions by 33%, while 30% less heat is needed in the store due to the insulation used in double glazing and timber panels.

“It’s a great achievement to fit all of this technology into such a small store.  Each one has been selected to help us reduce our environmental impact and achieve reduced carbon and energy savings,” said Paul Crewe, Sainsbury’s head of sustainability, engineering & energy.

“We believe this makes it Britain’s greenest convenience store finished to the very highest standards.”