Today, the Hershey Company announced it signed two clean energy partnerships to develop solar projects in the US with BayWa r.e. and National Grid Renewables, respectively. Therefore, the Company aims to move its operations toward the use of clean and renewable energy.
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The Hershey Company on agreeing clean power project for NC
Today, chocolate manufacturer The Hershey Company announced it signed two clean energy partnerships to develop solar projects in the US. In fact, those partnerships involve BayWa r.e. and National Grid Renewables, respectively.
Moreover, this move is part of the Company’s efforts to transition its operations toward the use of clean and renewable energy. Thus, for the first project, located in Camden, North Carolina, Hershey made a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA).
Hence, Hershey will begin financing and construction of the Company’s first utility-scale solar farm. In fact, global renewable energy developer BayWa r.e. is developing this 20-megawatt facility on 218 acres of land.
“We’re committed to a clean energy future, and we’re thrilled to work with forward-looking, corporate leaders to address their ambitious climate goals,” said Jam Attari, CEO of BayWa r.e. Solar Projects LLC in the US Indeed, “renewable projects like Camden both support decarbonization efforts. Besides, they have been the driver of skilled jobs creation in the energy economy and transition required to meet the continuing needs of these market leaders.”
Once completed, the Company expects this project to reduce CO2 emission by 32,025 metric tons per year. Finally, completion of the new solar farm is expected to be completed in late July.
The National Grid Renewables Agreement
Besides, Hershey signed a solar PPA with National Grid Renewables for 50-MW of the previously announced Noble Project, currently under construction in Denton County, Texas.
“National Grid Renewables is proud to partner with Hershey and other stakeholders on Noble to provide strong economic benefits for the local community of Denton County;” stated Nathan Franzen, Vice President, Development for National Grid Renewables. Moreover, “we currently estimate that 250 workers will construct Noble; 3-5 new permanent jobs will be created to support project operations; and millions of dollars will be produced locally through new tax revenue creation and increased spending. All of this while generating clean, solar energy for Texas residents.”
Indeed, this solar contract will account for an estimated 118,000-MW hour per year. Thus, creating a reduction of approximately 83,625 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually.
Together, both solar projects will generate significant clean power in North Carolina and Texas. Besides, they will significantly reduce Hershey’s CO2 footprint by 115,650 metric tons each year.
“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. Thus, “these solar projects will help us to reduce our impact on the environment. Besides, they will create jobs and help contribute to the growth of local economies.”
Moreover, the projects support the Company’s recently announced science-based targets commitments to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In fact, these efforts are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement.
