Fonterra Announces Electrification Plans To Future-proof Operations
Fonterra is ramping up its commitment to sustainability and operational resilience through a $150 million investment in electrification projects across New Zealand's North Island over the next 18 months. The initiative aims to bolster the Co-operative's climate goals by upgrading energy infrastructure at key sites and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
The investment involves the installation of electric boilers at the Whareroa, Edgecumbe, and Waitoa sites, alongside efforts to decarbonize the company's fleet, aligning with Fonterra's ambition to enhance energy security and promote renewable energy.
Significant Milestones
Fonterra's COO, Anna Palairet, emphasizes the significance of these investments as foundational to the Co-operative's future operational strategy. With the successful phasing out of coal boilers last year, the focus is now on reducing gas dependency with enduring energy solutions that balance affordability, security, and environmental responsibility.
Project Details
Whareroa: This site will see a $64 million energy transformation with two electrode boilers, significantly cutting annual emissions by an estimated 51,000 tonnes, equivalent to removing around 21,000 cars from the road.
Edgecumbe: With a $57 million investment, the site will transition to renewable energy, expected to lower emissions by 28,000 tonnes annually, akin to removing 11,000 cars from roads, contributing to a notable decrease in natural gas reliance.
Waitoa: Following the closure of its last coal boiler, Fonterra commits an additional $18 million to install two Resistive Element Boilers, enhancing heat production and energy reliability to support future growth.
Fleet Decarbonisation: Fonterra plans to pilot six EV tankers, significantly reducing fuel costs and enhancing environmental conservation.
Fonterra's long-term goal is a 50.4% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 2030 from a 2018 baseline, indicating the Co-operative's steadfast dedication to sustainable development.
Fonterra, owned by thousands of farming families across New Zealand, is dedicated to sharing the goodness of milk through innovative brands, while prioritizing sustainability and community support.
