Mars Marks a New Chapter in Renewable Energy Commitment
In a significant move towards sustainability, Mars, Incorporated has announced a remarkable achievement in its environmental efforts with a new renewable electricity contract in Sweden. This initiative reflects the company's dedication to mitigating climate change and advancing its sustainable practices as part of its Renewable Acceleration Program.
The new agreement, which secures 70% of the Kölvallen Wind Farm's annual output, will contribute approximately 670 GWh of clean electricity each year, positioning Mars as a pioneer in the renewable energy landscape. This is one of the company's largest renewable energy commitments in Europe, showcasing its ambition to incorporate renewable sources throughout its entire value chain.
Commitment to Clean Energy
As part of the ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, Mars has partnered with Foresight Energy Infrastructure Partners, a prominent investment manager, to develop this wind farm in Sweden. The Kölvallen Wind Farm, boasting an installed capacity of 277.2 MW, has the potential to provide enough renewable energy to power around 95,000 households on an annual basis. Expected to attain climate neutrality shortly after its inauguration, the project represents one of the most advanced onshore wind initiatives in Europe.
Kevin Rabinovitch, Global VP of Sustainability at Mars, highlighted the importance of this partnership: “Our collaboration with Foresight Group on this wind farm symbolizes our commitment to supporting the renewable energy transition across Europe. Our Renewable Acceleration Program aims to normalize renewable energy within our full value chain, driving impactful transformations for both our business and the communities we serve.”
Mars's involvement has been crucial, as the company provided the long-term commitment necessary for Foresight to proceed with construction and financing. This collaboration also promises substantial local benefits through a community fund derived from the wind farm's annual revenue and the creation of skilled job opportunities in the area. Richard Thompson, a Partner at Foresight Group, expressed enthusiasm about the project: “We are proud to join forces with Mars in this innovative venture that sets a benchmark for community-focused renewable energy projects.”
Goals for the Future
This renewable electricity contract is a vital step in Mars's broader sustainability strategy, encapsulated in its goal to achieve a 10% reduction in total carbon emissions by 2030, based on 2015 levels. Last year, the company signed a separate contract as part of the Renewable Acceleration Program, which launched over 100 solar initiatives in Poland, further testament to Mars's relentless pursuit of sustainability.
About Mars, Incorporated:
Founded over a century ago, Mars is a family-owned global business with a diverse portfolio that emphasizes pet care, food, and nutrition products. With over $65 billion in revenue, the company is dedicated to delivering products that improve the lives of pets and people alike. Renowned brands such as ROYAL CANIN®, PEDIGREE®, WHISKAS®, and SNICKERS® are just a few examples of the company's commitment to quality and social responsibility.
To learn more about Mars’s sustainability initiatives and innovative products, visit
www.mars.com and connect with them on social media.
Join Mars on its journey towards a brighter, more sustainable future.