Amazon reaches its 100% renewable energy goal seven years early
In a significant environmental achievement, Amazon has announced that it has surpassed its goal of sourcing 100% of its global operational electricity from renewable energy sources, achieving this milestone seven years ahead of schedule. This accomplishment positions Amazon as the world’s largest corporate purchaser of renewable energy since 2020, according to Bloomberg New Energy Finance.
Amazon’s dedication to sustainability is evident through its substantial investment in over 500 solar and wind projects worldwide, totaling billions of dollars. Achieving its renewable energy goal ahead of schedule serves as a testament to Amazon’s commitment to sustainability. The company’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Kara Hurst, emphasises Amazon’s adaptive approach to sustainability, stating their ongoing commitment to innovate and evolve strategies as they work towards their 2040 objectives.
Since announcing its pledge in 2019, Amazon has led renewable energy initiatives across 27 countries, pioneering projects in key nations such as India, Greece, South Africa, Japan, and Indonesia. These efforts include advocacy for policy frameworks that support the development of new solar and wind installations, promoting the widespread adoption of clean energy.
Amazon’s commitment extends to its Virginia headquarters, HQ2, which operates with zero carbon emissions and is powered by a nearby solar farm. Additionally, the company has implemented nearly 300 on-site solar projects globally, expected to collectively prevent approximately 27.8 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually upon full operation.
In the Asia-Pacific region, Amazon has launched over 80 renewable energy projects, with India being a focal point. The company’s initiatives in India alone, including 50 wind and solar projects, have contributed significantly to local economies, generating over USD 349 million (Rs 2,885 crore) in investments and supporting more than 20,600 jobs in 2022.
Kyle Harrison, Head of Sustainability Research at BloombergNEF, underscored the extensive influence of Amazon’s accomplishments, noting that by achieving its 100% renewable energy goal, Amazon has fostered the establishment of numerous solar and wind projects, thereby introducing fresh sources of clean energy to grids and communities across the globe.
Looking forward, as Amazon continues its journey towards achieving its Climate Pledge of net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, the company acknowledges the evolving landscape and the need for a flexible approach to meet increasing energy demands, driven by emerging technologies like generative AI. This adaptive strategy involves exploring a mix of renewable and other carbon-free energy sources to sustain its extensive operations and environmental commitments.
Amazon’s accomplishment not only represents a corporate milestone but also serves as a model for global sustainability efforts, demonstrating the transformative potential of committed corporate leadership in advancing the transition to a low-carbon economy.
