Hershey inks 2 solar energy deals in US

Confectionery giant Hershey has entered nto two power purchase agreements (PPAs) in Camden, North Carolina, and Texas in pursuance of its 2030 sustainability goals to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by more than 50 percent.

Hershey's 15-year PPA with renewable energy developer BayWa r.e. will result in the construction of its first utility-scale solar farm in Camden.

The 20 megawatts facility, expected for completion in July, will reportedly reduce CO2 emissions by 32,025 metric tons annually.

Meanwhile, Hershey is among several companies involved in the Noble Project, now under construction in Denton County, Texas. Hershey's PPA with National Grid Renewables is for 50 megawatts of the Noble Project.

The Noble Project is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by a total of 450,000 metric tons annually during the first 20 years of operations.

Jeff King, senior director of global sustainability and social impact at Hershey, noted that not only will the solar projects help Hershey to reduce environmental impact, but it will also create jobs, help contribute to the growth of local economies, and help fulfill their commitment to reducing their GHG footprint.