Amazon reduces its reliance on fossil fuels with on-site solar systems
Amazon has announced the early completion of its commitment to host 50 solar systems on its fulfilment and sortation centre rooftops globally by 2020.
The on-site solar systems reduce Amazon’s reliance on fossil fuels, and can generate as much as 80% of a single fulfilment facility’s annual energy needs.
Amazon’s on-site solar investments support Shipment Zero – Amazon’s vision to make all Amazon shipments net zero carbon, with 50% of all shipments net zero by 2030 – as well as its companywide goal to use 100% renewable energy across its global operations and infrastructure.
In just the last three-years alone, Amazon has installed more solar capacity in the U.S. than any company. In total, Amazon’s solar projects in the U.S. have offset the CO2 equivalent of more than 200 million miles of truck deliveries.
“Online shopping is inherently more sustainable, and with Shipment Zero, we’re working to make all Amazon shipments net zero carbon, with 50% of all shipments net zero by 2030,” said Kara Hurst, Director of Sustainability, Amazon. “Our investments in renewable energy – including reaching our goal of 50 solar rooftop installations a year early – are another important milestone in building a more sustainable business. Thanks to all the teams working hard to deliver this – we’re going to continue our investment in renewable energy.”
Globally, Amazon has 32 rooftop systems in the U.S., 12 in the EU, and seven in India, totaling over 98 MW of installed capacity. In total, Amazon has 61 operating solar and wind projects that are expected to generate over 1,044 MW and deliver over 3.1 million MWh of energy annually.
“Corporate solar investments are surging thanks to companies like Amazon,” said Abigail Ross Hopper, President and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association. “Over the past three years, Amazon has installed more solar than any other company, showing that clean energy both boosts the bottom line and helps companies meet climate commitments. We commend Amazon for its leadership on solar energy and urge other businesses to follow their example.”
