The 15-year power purchase agreement between AB InBev UK and Lightsource BP, Europe’s largest solar energy company, will roll out 100 megawatts of solar power.
Lightsource BP will fund, develop and operate solar installations to generate electricity for AB InBev’s operations: producing the equivalent electricity needed to power 18,000 homes by the end of 2020.
AB InBev’s two main UK breweries are based in Magor, South Wales; and Samlesbury, Lancashire: producing more than 17 million bottles and cans of Budweiser a week. All Budweiser brewed and sold in the UK will feature its 100% renewable electricity symbol (pictured right), which is already in use in the US.
AB InBev’s global 2025 sustainability goals include a 25% reduction in carbon emissions against a 2017 baseline.
Jason Warner, zone president for Europe, AB InBev, said: “We want to build a movement towards celebrating and growing renewable electricity, and are asking our consumers, customers, colleagues, business partners and fellow companies to join us. We are making our 100% renewable electricity symbol available for any brands who share these values.”
Nick Boyle, group CEO, Lightsource BP, said: “Solar is cost-competitive, scalable, reliable and quick to deploy. Our partnership with AB InBev is further proof that solar power can now be delivered at a cost-competitive price. This deal will help transform the energy mix for one of the UK’s biggest brewers, contributing to the overall share of renewables production across the UK.”
