CleanCo has secured a landmark 100 per cent renewables-backed deal with Coles to help power the retail giant’s Queensland operations with clean energy.
Clean energy from wind and solar generated on Queensland’s Southern Downs and Western Downs will be helping to power Coles supermarkets and their other retail outlets right across the Sunshine State.
Under the 10-year agreement, the grocery giant will purchase 400 GWh of electricity per year, commencing July 1, 2022.
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CleanCo CEO Dr Maia Schweizer said that providing clean energy at a competitive price to Coles allows CleanCo to create growth and jobs in regional Queensland associated with its 2025 goal of 1000 MW of new renewable generation.
“Solar power from Neoen’s Western Downs Green Power Hub and wind power from ACCIONA’s MacIntyre wind farm will contribute three quarters of the contracted electricity requirements, with the remainder supported by our unique low-emissions portfolio,” Dr Schweizer said.
Coles CEO Steven Cain said the increased use of clean energy is a major part of Coles’ commitment to be Australia’s most sustainable and trusted supermarket and grow long-term shareholder value.
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“We are thrilled that with these agreements, Coles can make a significant contribution to the growth of renewable energy supply in Australia, as well as to the communities we serve,” he said.
Coles Chief Sustainability, Property and Export Officer Thinus Keeve said Coles is committed to purchasing renewable energy across the country.
“Long-term agreements like this are a great example of how we are able to reduce our energy costs, support the community and make a meaningful impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” Mr Keeve said.
“The CleanCo and Metka EGN agreements are great examples of how we can grow renewable energy generation capacity in Australia because they give the developers the certainty they need to invest and we look forward to growing our partnerships with renewable energy providers in the future.”