Energy Efficiency, Industrial, Wind  -  February 7, 2018

Brown-Forman signs PPA for 30 MW annually

Brown-Forman Corporation announced on Feb. 6 an agreement to purchase 30 megawatts of electricity per year from Solomon Forks Wind Project in Kansas, becoming the first major U.S. spirits and wine producer to commit to a PPA in the U.S.

The wind farm is expected to generate the equivalent of more than 90% of Brown-Forman’s electricity usage in the US, according to a statement from the company. The agreement calls for Brown-Foreman to purchase wind power over the next 15 years and retain ownership of resulting RECs to offset the greenhouse gas emissions from electricity usage at its U.S. facilities. The electricity generated by the wind farm will then be sold on the wholesale market.

"This new wind project will add new renewable energy capacity to the grid and demonstrates our commitment to a lower carbon economy. We believe that renewable energy is a prime solution for a sustainable energy future," said Rob Frederick, Brown-Forman, vice president, corporate responsibility. This PPA is expected to enable the company to meet its target, stated in 2012, of to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 15% by 2023. 

 The PPA was signed by Brown-Forman and Infinity Renewables, the developer of the Solomon Forks Wind Project. Schneider Electric’s Energy & Sustainability Services worked with Brown-Forman to identify and evaluate options and arrange the deal. Construction on the project is expected to begin this year with commercial operation targeted for 2019. 

 "This partnership demonstrates how forward-looking companies like Brown-Forman are approaching their energy use and leading the way with their investment in low-cost, clean energy that is both good for their business and society," said Steve Wilhite, Schneider Electric, senior vice president, energy and sustainability services.