Eneco has entered a partnership with Dutch supermarket chain Albert Heijn to supply it with electricity from the 760MW Ecowende offshore wind farm.
The 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) will help the retail group meet half of its own power needs from 2027, once the project becomes operational in late 2026.
Albert Heijn’s climate target is an emissions-free supply chain (net zero) by 2050. Its own shops, distribution centres and offices are already fully climate-neutral, which is due to the switch to 100% Dutch wind power in early 2021.
A completely carbon-free chain requires energy offtake from more sustainable sources.
Ecowende will be constructed in the North Sea, 53km off the coast of IJmuiden.
“Wind energy is considered an important part of reducing carbon emissions, which is something we as Albert Heijn are continuously making strides towards,” said Albert Heijn chief executive Marit van Egmond.
“The strategic partnership with Eneco, which will involve us buying power from the new wind farm to meet half of our own power needs, is therefore perfectly in line with our ambitions to achieve a chain with zero carbon emissions in 2050.”
Eneco chief executive As Tempelman added: “Albert Heijn is showing strong leadership, not just by setting clear climate goals but also by continuously taking concrete steps towards fulfilling its ambitions.
“A well thought out strategy for energy supply is very important, both to reduce the carbon emissions and simultaneously to keep costs manageable.
“Through this great partnership we continue to contribute towards a successful energy transition leading to a sustainable the Netherlands.”