Wilson amorphous transformer at Tesco’s low-carbon concept store in Harrogate

Tesco had identified the Skipton Road in Harrogate as a potential location for a supermarket as early as the 2010s. It was not until 2021 that the planning application for the new superstore was submitted, and in early 2023, the permission was formally granted by Harrogate Council. The new design includes a 3,651m² store with 200 parking spaces, electric vehicle charging points, and a petrol station.

What is notable and innovative is that the store's building design uses passive and active energy measures, including natural daylighting, energy-efficient lighting and heat recovery systems. It is estimated that the store will reduce carbon emissions by 50% and energy use by up to 41% compared with the current building standards (Part L2A 2013 Building Regulations).

Behind-the-scenes electrical supply

Building on the existing relationship with Tesco, through the supply of over 150 transformers across the UK over the past 15+ years, Wilson Power Solutions began conversations with Tesco to explore how our low-loss transformer product can reduce further emissions at this low-carbon concept store. We supplied an 800kVA 11000/415V Wilson e4 Ultimate Low Loss Amorphous® Transformer through Prestige Power Ltd., which installed the transformer in 2025.

The new Tesco store is an excellent fit for the company’s award-winning energy-saving transformers. To further enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, the superstore incorporates an energy-saving Wilson distribution transformer as part of its electrical infrastructure strategy. These advanced transformers use amorphous core technology and reduce energy losses by 27% compared with the current Ecodesign Tier 2 regulation. Wilson high-efficiency transformers can significantly cut no-load and load losses in the building’s electrical system, meaning less energy is wasted as heat and more is delivered where it’s needed.

By reducing on-site electrical losses, Tesco further lowers operational electricity consumption and supports its wider carbon-reduction goals. This investment in modern power distribution technology aligns with Tesco’s commitment to operating more energy-efficient facilities and contributing to Net Zero targets by reducing Scope 2 emissions associated with electricity use.