Papa John's franchisee adds solar to 100% RE mix

One of the largest Papa John's franchisees in the country has been powering its more than 85 stores with 100% wind power since 2015, but beginning in 2018, will add solar to its mix. 

Through a nine-year agreement with TXU Energy, Houston Pizza Venture will receive a portion of its power from a new, 180-MW solar plant in West Texas, according to a Sept. 26 news release. Electricity from the Luminant project will make up nearly 25% of the restaurant company's electricity mix. 

Houston Pizza Venture stores include Papa John's, Genghis Grill, Firehouse Subs, and Sure Fire Tacos and Tortilla Grill locations.

"As a business owner, it is important to me to know that the electricity powering my restaurants comes from renewable sources," said Keith Sullins, president of Houston Pizza Venture. "This isn't an agreement that simply makes us feel good; it also makes financial sense."

Sullins said TXU Energy is adding solar to the company's already 100% renewable plan without an upfront cost component. The nine-year agreement, which includes both solar and wind, will begin in April 2018 at the culmination of the company's current 100% wind contract.

Energy Edge Consulting advised Houston Pizza Ventures on the transaction.