The Hershey Company has signed two PPAs to develop solar projects in the US as it moves its operations toward the use of clean and renewable energy.
For the first project, located in Camden, North Carolina, the snacks manufacturer has made a 15-year PPA that will enable the financing and construction of the company’s first utility-scale solar farm.
The farm is being developed by global renewable energy developer BayWa.
This solar project will be a 20MW facility on 218 acres of land.
Construction of the new solar farm is expected to be completed in late July.
Hershey signed a second solar PPA with National Grid Renewables for 50MW of the previously announced Noble Project , currently under construction in Denton County, Texas.
Hershey is one of several companies involved in the Noble Project, which is estimated to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by a total of 450,000 metric tons annually during the first 20 years of operations.
Together, both solar projects will generate significant clean power in North Carolina and Texas as well as significantly reduce Hershey’s CO2 footprint by 115,650 metric tons each year.
Renewable energy investments and energy efficiency projects are a key focus area for Hershey to achieve its goal to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by more than 50% by 2030.
Hershey senior director of global sustainability and social impact Jeff King said: “As we continue on our path towards an increased reliance on clean and renewable energy, we’re excited to partner with BayWa and National Grid Renewables to develop these solar projects in North Carolina and Texas.
“Not only will these solar projects help Hershey to reduce its impact on the environment, they will also create jobs and help contribute to the growth of local economies and our commitment to reduce our GHG footprint.”
Edison Energy, a sustainability and energy management consultancy, advised Hershey on its environmental initiatives and selection of BayWa and National Grid Renewables as solar developers.
Edison Energy has advised global companies, universities and cities on more than 6.7GW of renewable energy projects across North America and Europe.
BayWa chief executive of solar projects in the US Jam Attari said: “We’re committed to a clean energy future, and we’re thrilled to work with forward-looking, corporate leaders like Hershey to address their ambitious climate goals.
“Renewable projects like Camden both support decarbonization efforts and have been the driver of skilled jobs creation in the energy economy and transition required to meet the continuing needs of these market leaders.”
National Grid Renewables vice president for development Nathan Franzen added: “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.
“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 while generating clean, solar energy for Texas residents.”