AIB has backed Lidl's development of eight energy efficient stores with an €80m green lending package.
The German supermarket chain has opened A1 BER rated stores in the Republic of Ireland and three EPC A rated stores in Northern Ireland, supported by the investment.
The stores are located in Kilcarbery, Enfield, Ballyfermot, Carndonagh and Maynooth; and Carryduff, Stewartstown and Strabane.
Lidl said the flagship Maynooth store is Ireland's first Net Zero supermarket.
It said it generates all operational energy from onsite renewables in the roof and the carpark and offsets carbon through progressive construction methods.
The Maynooth store's construction integrated sustainable materials, including salvaged stone and concrete with 50% recycled content.
Managing Director of Capital Markets at AIB, Cathy Bryce, the investment supporting projects such as the Maynooth store demonstrates the banks commitment to empowering communities and businesses to act sustainably and responsibly.
"We recognise that enabling businesses to invest in energy efficient infrastructure is vital not only for a greener future, but also for building resilience and competitiveness within towns and villages around the country and the wider Irish economy," said Ms Bryce.
Avril O’Hehir, Chief Financial Officer at Lidl Ireland said sustainability is at the core of Lidl's business strategy
"We are committed to investing in delivering the most sustainable retail operations on the island of Ireland," she said. " This investment from AIB is instrumental in achieving our ambitious sustainability objectives."
Lidl is Ireland’s largest commercial rooftop solar panel operator, with installations across more than 100 stores and logistics centres.
Lidl said it hopes these ongoing investments will bolster the company's mission to achieve net zero emissions in its supply chain by 2050.
