
Cargill, a prominent figure in the food and agriculture industry, has announced a substantial surge in its contracted renewable energy capacity, marking a 42% increase. The move follows the signing of five new deals, set to add 300 megawatts of wind and solar capacity to its portfolio. With this expansion, Cargill's total offsite renewable energy portfolio now stands at an impressive 716 megawatts.
These contracts are not just about bolstering numbers; they play a pivotal role in Cargill's commitment to reducing absolute operational greenhouse gas emissions. The company aims for a 10% reduction by 2025 against a 2017 baseline. Notably, Cargill has already achieved a remarkable emissions reduction of 10.97% as of calendar year 2022.
Globally, Cargill's renewable energy portfolio spans across 12 countries, comprising primarily wind and solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and Virtual Power Purchase Agreements (VPPAs). The anticipated outcome of these additions is a significant reduction in CO2e emissions, estimated at nearly 820,000 metric tons per year once the contracts are fully operational in 2024.
Christina Yagjian, Cargill's Global Renewable Energy Leader, emphasized the company's commitment to climate action and sustainability. Yagjian stated, "Renewable energy projects are just one of several ways we are weaving sustainable practices into our supply chains and global operations." She highlighted that while the company's focus on emissions reduction lies within its supply chains, decarbonizing its operations is a crucial step toward achieving broader climate goals.
Cargill's latest endeavors include partnerships in various regions, such as Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, the United States, and Brazil, showcasing a global commitment to sustainable energy practices. These initiatives underscore Cargill's proactive approach in contributing to a greener future while ensuring the resilience and sustainability of its operations.
Source: cargill.com