Unilever UK has signed a new agreement with the renewable energy company Eneco to power 15 of the company’s sites in Britain.
Under the agreement, Unilever has bought 87% of the output (165GWh) from Eneco’s 23-turbine windfarm in Lochluichart in Scotland.
Surplus energy (24GWh) from the windfarm will be sold under a retail tariff to communities living near the Highlands facility.
The contract builds on an agreement earlier this year to use biomethane to power five other Unilever sites in the UK and Ireland.
“This latest step in securing an in-country, sustainable supply of wind-generated energy is an important milestone in helping us meet our bold ambition of becoming carbon positive by 2030,” said Unilever’s sustainable business and communications director, Yvette Edwards.
“It’s made all the more significant as any surplus supply will be sold to nearby communities, thereby progressing our vision of making sustainable living commonplace.”
The head of Eneco Energy Trade UK, Nigel McManus, added: “The power generated by Lockluichart windfarm will supply dedicated renewable power to the majority of Unilever UK sites for years to come.
“We will also assist Unilever to engage with the upcoming smart, flexible energy market to further reduce their costs and carbon footprint.”