Harnessing the sun’s energy, from Kaitaia to Kuala Lumpur
We’re switching to solar power at sites across the globe to further reduce our footprint and stay at the forefront of low-emissions food production.
From Kaitaia in New Zealand’s Far North to Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur, we’re adopting solar power at Fonterra sites to help with our energy needs and tread a lighter path.
We’ll reduce emissions by 950 tonnes of CO2e a year thanks to two new solar installations at our sites in Malaysia and Indonesia.
That’s equivalent to taking 365 cars off New Zealand roads a year.
“This is a win-win for us in terms of better outcomes for the environment and cost savings over the long-term,” says Judith Swales, Fonterra’s CEO for Asia Pacific.
“Solar has become an increasingly viable option through technological advancements. These latest installations in Indonesia and Malaysia will account for almost a quarter of both sites' energy needs. Every little bit helps towards reaching our sustainability targets, which include having net zero carbon emissions by 2050.”
Jakarta, Indonesia - solar installations
Fonterra’s Farm Source stores in New Zealand are also making the switch. Solar power was first trialled at the Co-op’s newest store in Ōtorohanga, which has been piloting a range of sustainability initiatives to see what could be rolled out across the Farm Source network.
Harnessing the sun’s power proved to be the most promising option when it came to renewable energy. Four other locations also now feature solar including Ōtorohanga’s neighbour store in Te Awamutu, Taranaki stores Kaponga and Stratford, plus the Far North store in Kaitaia.
Solar has become an increasingly viable option through technological advancements. These latest installations in Indonesia and Malaysia will account for almost a quarter of both site’s energy needs.
“Solar will power 30-55% of these sites’ energy needs and the investment is expected to be paid off within seven years,” says Farm Source Director Richard Allen.
“This is just one of the ways we’re reducing our footprint and staying at the forefront of low-emissions food production.”
Fonterra’s head office in Auckland is also in on the action having had solar panels on the roof since it was completed as a 5 Star Green Star building in 2016.
Solar doesn’t come without its challenges, which can include cost, climate, energy storage or lack of appropriate space or structures for panels.
The Economist recently estimated that, with bold action, renewable electricity such as solar and wind power could rise from the current five per cent of the world’s supply to 25 per cent in 2035, and nearly 50 per cent by 2050.