Commercial, Wind  -  August 4, 2021

Mars to Power 2,000 US Vet Hospitals with Illinois Wind

Mars announced Aug. 4 a new PPA that will cover 100% of the electricity needs for the 2,000 U.S. veterinary hospitals within its Mars Veterinary Health network with renewable energy.

The 15-year agreement was completed with Apex Clean Energy in pursuit of Mars’ larger goal to source 100% renewable electricity throughout its direct operations by 2040. The partnership was facilitated by Commodity Risk Solution and will support the construction of a new 121.26 MW wind farm in Ford County, Ill., set for completion by the end of 2021.

Aside from well-known candy brands like M&Ms, Milky Way and Snickers, Mars also owns a portfolio of pet care products and businesses across the country. The Illinois wind farm will, in coordination with another wind farm in Texas, generate enough electricity to cover 100% of Mars’ confectionary, food and pet care businesses in the U.S. This includes all Banfield Pet Hospital, BluePearl, and VCA veterinary hospitals, and more than 70 Antech Diagnostics laboratories.

While the Illinois wind farm will provide the remaining energy needed for its U.S. operations after accounting for the power from the Texas project, once completed the wind project will allow Mars to cover 50% of its global operations with renewable electricity.

“It's imperative to Mars Veterinary Health that we take steps now to ensure a better future for people, pets, and the planet,” Doug Drew, president of Mars Veterinary Health North America, said in a statement. “This is a clear expectation from our clients and Associates. Being part of Mars allows us to take immediate climate action and make an impact beyond the walls of our veterinary hospitals. Ensuring that all of our hospitals are powered by renewable electricity is a significant step, with more to come.”

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