Enel Launches 326-MW Solar Farm for Nestle Commitment

• Enel's Stampede solar farm powers a greener future! Nestle locks in 15 years of renewable energy, driving sustainability across U.S. manufacturing.

Enel North America has launched the 326-MWdc solar segment of its Stampede solar-plus-storage project in Hopkins County, Texas. The solar farm, equipped with bifacial photovoltaic modules, began generating electricity in June 2024, while the accompanying 86-MWdc battery energy storage system is nearing final commissioning.

Nestle SA is set to purchase renewable energy attributes corresponding to the entire output of the Stampede solar farm for the next 15 years, totaling over 522 GWh annually. As the sole tax equity investor in the project, Nestle aims to source 100% renewable electricity at all its U.S. manufacturing sites by 2025.

How will Nestle's investment in the Stampede project impact its renewable energy goals?

- Commitment to Renewable Energy: Nestle’s investment in the Stampede project aligns with its broader commitment to sustainability, emphasizing its goal to source 100% renewable electricity at all U.S. manufacturing sites by 2025. This investment is a significant step toward fulfilling that pledge.

- Long-term Renewable Energy Purchase Agreement: By acquiring renewable energy attributes for the entirety of the Stampede solar farm's production over the next 15 years, Nestle secures a stable, long-term supply of clean energy. This hedges against energy price volatility and aligns with corporate sustainability goals.

- Support for Local Renewable Infrastructure: Nestle's involvement as the sole tax equity investor can enhance the financial viability of the Stampede solar project, potentially leading to the acceleration of renewable energy projects in Texas and supporting local green energy infrastructure.

- Reduction of Carbon Footprint: By using the renewable energy generated by the Stampede project, Nestle will significantly reduce its carbon emissions associated with electricity consumption at its manufacturing sites, contributing to its overarching objectives of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

- Enhanced Corporate Reputation: This investment reinforces Nestle’s image as a leader in sustainability and environmental stewardship in the food and beverage sector, potentially attracting environmentally-conscious consumers and investors.

- Sector Collaboration: Nestle’s partnership in the Stampede project exemplifies collaboration between corporations and renewable energy developers, setting a precedent for other companies to invest in similar initiatives, ultimately accelerating the transition to renewable energy across various industries.

- Support for Energy Storage Innovation: The accompanying 86-MWdc battery energy storage system at Stampede not only boosts the reliability of renewable energy supply but also places Nestle at the forefront of energy innovation, as it embraces technologies that enhance resiliency in the electric grid.

- Policy Influence and Market Engagement: By actively participating in renewable energy investments, Nestle may influence energy policy and promote favorable regulations for renewable energy adoption, helping to create a more sustainable energy market landscape.

- Potential for Expansion Beyond the U.S.: Successfully implementing this initiative could pave the way for Nestle to explore similar renewable energy projects internationally, facilitating global renewable energy strategies and expanding its environmental impact beyond the U.S. borders.