Hershey has announced details of two power purchase agreements (PPAs), which will see the development of the first solar farm in Camden, North Carolina, and a new solar project in Texas.
The renewable energy agreements align with Hershey’s recent 2030 sustainability goals to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by more than 50%, in line with the Paris Climate Agreement.
Hershey has entered a 15-year PPA with renewable energy developer BayWa r.e. that will see the construction of its first utility-scale solar farm. Located in Camden, the 20 megawatts facility is expected to be completed in late July and will reportedly reduce CO2 emissions by 32,025 metric tons per year.
The confectionery giant has also signed a PPA with National Grid Renewables for 50 megawatts of the previously announced Noble Project – resulting in a reduction of approximately 83,625 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year.
Hershey is one of several companies involved in the Noble Project – which is currently under construction in Denton County, Texas – which is estimated to reduce CO2 emissions by a total of 450,000 metric tons annually during the first 20 years of operations.
“As we continue on our path towards an increased reliance on clean and renewable energy, we’re excited to partner with BayWa r.e. and National Grid Renewables to develop these solar projects in North Carolina and Texas,” said Jeff King, senior director of global sustainability and social impact at Hershey.
“Not only will these solar projects help Hershey to reduce its impact on the environment, they will also create jobs and help contribute to the growth of local economies and our commitment to reduce our GHG footprint.”
Jam Attari, CEO of BayWa r.e. Solar Projects in the US, said: “We’re committed to a clean energy future, and we’re thrilled to work with forward-looking, corporate leaders like Hershey to address their ambitious climate goals.
“Renewable projects like Camden both support decarbonisation efforts and have been the driver of skilled jobs creation in the energy economy and transition required to meet the continuing needs of these market leaders.”
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