Mars takes renewable strides

MARS Australia as announced that it has transitioned to renewable electricity, offsetting 100 per cent of the power at its Australian factories and offices.

Developed by renewable energy independent power producer Total Eren and using electricity from the Kiamal Solar Farm, the effort is part of the company’s global commitment to reduce gas emissions by 67 per cent by 2050.

Mars Food Australia general manager Bill Heague said the company believes businesses, governments and individuals must work together to take action on climate change.

“With the majority of Mars products enjoyed by Aussies being made here, our transition to renewable electricity not only makes sense for our business and the planet, it also means Australians can feel even better about buying Mars products,” he said.

“That is something I am personally thrilled about.

“Total Eren is a leader in resource efficiency and renewable energy, and the Kiamal Solar Farm is the biggest solar project in Victoria, it has an eventual grid output of 200 megawatts from 718,000 solar panels.”

In addition, Mars was also one of the first companies to join RE100, which is a global energy initiative which encourages major corporations to switch to 100 per cent renewable electricity.

“Our partnership with RE100 was a natural fit that enables Mars Australia to play its part in driving global change in the renewables space and the market,” Mr Heague said.

“In 2018, Mars Australia signed a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement which will offset 100 per cent of its operations with renewable electricity.”