NOVUS invests UAH 385 mln in network energy independence
The NOVUS supermarket chain has completed comprehensive preparations for the autumn-winter period to ensure the uninterrupted operation of its stores even during prolonged power outages. The total investment in energy independence and backup solutions amounted to UAH 385 million, the company’s press service reported.
"We understand that the operation of our supermarkets is a matter of access for Ukrainians to everyday food products, even during crisis periods. That is why energy independence has become one of NOVUS’s key investment priorities," the press service quoted Dainius Tumenas, Deputy CEO for Asset Management at NOVUS.
Currently, all NOVUS stores are equipped with generators of various capacities. Their total installed capacity is 33.72 MW, enabling the network to operate even during prolonged power outages. Since the start of the full-scale war, total investments in energy efficiency and energy independence have reached UAH 385 million, of which UAH 272 million was allocated to generators.
According to the company, one of the breakthrough solutions for Ukrainian retail has been gas generators – more environmentally friendly than diesel and capable of simultaneously producing electricity, heat, and industrial cooling. NOVUS has installed four units with a total capacity of 3 MW at two of its facilities.
"Gas generators help us remain stable under critical conditions while simultaneously moving us toward environmental sustainability and energy efficiency," emphasized Tumenas.
NOVUS has also built a strategic reserve of diesel fuel – 168 tonnes, enough for six days of autonomous operation of the entire network. Additionally, a continuous fuel supply system has been established, allowing rapid response to crisis situations.
At the same time, the company is developing its renewable energy segment. Pilot projects in Novi Petrivtsi (Kyiv region) and at its logistics center have demonstrated the efficiency of solar panels: during the summer, they covered up to 65% of the supermarket’s energy needs. By the end of 2025, 15 NOVUS facilities will operate on their own solar generation, with a total capacity of 3.34 MW. Total investments in this area amount to UAH 78.6 million.
To increase energy efficiency in its stores, NOVUS is implementing a Building Management System (BMS), which allows remote control of lighting, ventilation, electricity supply, and other key processes.
An important step in reducing the carbon footprint was the purchase of the first corporate electric vehicles in 2025.
The chain also emphasizes that in the event of power outages, stores remain open not only for shopping but also as support spaces where people can charge devices, warm up, and purchase fresh food.
The development of the NOVUS supermarket network is managed by BT Invest (Lithuania), established in 2008 by former shareholders of Sandora, Raimondas Tumenas and late Ihor Bezzub.