Te Awamutu site fires up on pellet power
It’s full steam ahead on wood pellets as our Te Awamutu site takes the next step in its transition away from coal.
Earlier this year the Co-op announced the move to renewable energy with the site previously using a mix of coal, gas and electricity to process milk.
Chief Operating Officer Fraser Whineray says sustainability is core to the Co-op’s long-term strategy and while COVID-19 has presented some challenges, we’ve still managed to complete the project before the spring milk arrived.
“We did have some delivery delays with certain offshore components, and I’m pleased with the outcome thanks to our team and suppliers.
“It’s really important sustainability investments like this are maintained despite the pandemic challenges.”
The move away from coal at Te Awamutu is part of the Co-op’s plans to have net zero emissions at our manufacturing sites by 2050. Once completed, it will reduce our national coal consumption by 9 per cent, saving more than 84,000 tonnes of carbon emissions per year – the same as taking 32,000 cars off the road.
“It’s a positive step towards meeting our interim target of achieving a 30% reduction in emissions by 2030 and shows us what can be achieved by using wood biomass to decarbonise our manufacturing sites.”
It’s really important sustainability investments like this are maintained despite the pandemic challenges
Fraser says partnering has been important in reaching this sustainability milestone.
“We value our partnerships with Natures Flame and Energy Efficiency Conservation Authority (EECA) – they are integral to major projects like this.”