Ingka Investments Launches First French Solar PV Park

• Ingka Investments powers green ambitions with France’s first solar PV park, energizing 6,000 homes and driving IKEA's net-zero goals. A bright step towards 100% renewable electricity!

Ingka Investments, the investment arm of IKEA's largest franchisee, has launched its first solar photovoltaic (PV) park in France, located in the Langeron commune. This facility is expected to produce approximately 23 GWh of green electricity annually, enough to power over 6,000 homes. The project aligns with Ingka Group's commitment to 100% renewable electricity across its retail operations by 2025 and contributes to IKEA's net-zero goals.

The PV park, featuring 34,500 solar modules, is being operated in collaboration with Exus Renewables. Frederik de Jong, head of renewable energy at Ingka Investments, emphasized the importance of expanding renewable energy production, highlighting the company’s strategy to ensure long-term access to renewable power across its retail markets. Ingka Investments also owns seven wind farms in France, enhancing its renewable energy initiatives.

How does Ingka Investments' new solar park support IKEA's renewable energy ambitions?

• Alignment with Corporate Goals: The launch of the solar park is a pivotal step in fulfilling IKEA's overarching sustainability objectives, specifically the aim to achieve 100% renewable electricity in its operations by 2025. This directly supports IKEA’s broader net-zero emissions goals.
• Increased Renewable Energy Capacity: The new solar park adds a significant amount of renewable energy capacity to IKEA's portfolio. With an annual output of around 23 GWh, it strengthens the reliance on clean energy sources and demonstrates Ingka’s commitment to addressing climate change.
• Community Impact: By generating enough electricity to power over 6,000 homes, the solar park not only contributes to energy transitions at the corporate level but also supports local communities by promoting the use of renewable energy at the grassroots level.
• Diverse Energy Portfolio: The establishment of the solar park complements Ingka Investments’ existing renewable energy assets, including its seven wind farms in France. This diversification allows the company to optimize energy production and reduce reliance on any single energy source.
• Long-Term Energy Strategy: Frederik de Jong's emphasis on ensuring long-term access to renewable power highlights a strategic vision that goes beyond immediate sustainability goals. This project is part of a larger strategy to secure energy independence and resilience amid fluctuating energy markets.
• Collaboration with Expertise: Partnering with Exus Renewables brings expertise in renewable energy project development and management, which enhances the operational efficiency and success potential of the solar park, thus facilitating smoother implementation and ongoing maintenance.
• Contribution to Local Economy: The construction and operation of the solar facility can provide job opportunities within the local community, contributing to economic growth in the Langeron area as well as fostering a culture of sustainability.
• Innovation and Technology Use: The 34,500 solar modules deployed in the PV park represent cutting-edge solar technology, contributing not only to energy production but also serving as a model for future renewable energy projects that IKEA may pursue globally.
• Setting Industry Standards: As a major player in the retail sector, IKEA’s investment in renewable energy projects like this solar park sets a benchmark for corporate responsibility and green initiatives in the industry, encouraging other companies to follow suit in committing to renewable energy.