Mars Australia, the company behind brands including Masterfoods, Pedigree and M&M’s, has announced it is making the transition to using renewable electricity to offset 100 per cent of the power at its six factories and two offices in Australia.
Marking a key step in advancing Mars’ global Sustainable in a Generation goals to reduce its global greenhouse gas emissions by 27 per cent by 2025 and 67 per cent by 2050, the news underlines $USD1B commitment the company made in 2017 to reduce its environmental impact.
The launch and now commencement of generation of the Victoria-based Kiamal Solar Farm developed by renewable energy Independent Power Producer (IPP) Total Eren follows announcements from the Federal Government to modernise Australian manufacturing. With more than 100 years’ history operating in Australia, Mars recognises that switching to renewable electricity increases operational efficiencies and is better for the planet.
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Mars was also one of the first companies to join RE100. With more than 280 members, RE100 is the world’s biggest renewable energy initiative for major corporations. Led by The Climate Group in partnership with CDP, the initiative encourages companies to switch to 100 per cent renewable electricity.
Mars Food Australia general manager Bill Heague said, “I am proud to announce that we are making the switch to 100 per cent renewable electricity. At Mars, we believe business, government, and individuals must work together to take meaningful action on climate change. This move ensures we are playing our part to create a better world for future generations.
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“We know consumers want to see action on climate change. With the majority of Mars products enjoyed by Aussies being made here, our transition to renewable electricity not only makes sense for our business and the planet, it also means Australians can feel even better about buying Mars products – and that is something I am personally thrilled about.”
Total Eren Asia Pacific regional director Michael Vawser said the Kiamal Solar Farm is a unique project, not only because it is the biggest solar farm in Victoria but also because it is backed by four Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and one large-Scale Generation Certificates (LGCs) contract, all to highly valued companies: Mars Australia, Alinta Energy, FlowPower, Zero Emissions Water and Origin Energy.
“We are very pleased to be able to play a role in reducing Australia’s carbon footprint and increasing the ratio of renewable energy in the country for the benefit of such pioneering and responsible industry players. My team and I look forward to providing more competitive renewable energy to the public and private sector in Australia and throughout the Asia Pacific region,” he said.