Food company The J. M. Smucker has signed a long-term power purchase agreement with Lincoln Clean Energy (LCE) for supply of 60MW from the 230MW Plum Creek Wind Project in Wayne County, Nebraska.
Image: Lincoln Clean Energy to sell 60MW wind power to The J. M. Smucker . Photo: Courtesy of Falk Schaaf/FreeImages.com
Starting in 2020, the wind energy produced from the Plum Creek project will address approximately 50% of Smucker’s total electricity use.
The J. M. Smucker Company Government Relations and Corporate Sustainability Vice President Julia Sabin said: “This agreement is an important step forward in our organization-wide effort to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions intensity.
“In 2017, electricity accounted for more than half our greenhouse gas emissions. This agreement will not only reduce our carbon footprint, but will also allow us to make a lasting contribution to our nation’s renewable energy capacity.”
LCE has developed and financed more than two gigawatts of wind power over the last four years and was the largest non-utility developer and owner of U.S. wind power commissioned in 2017.
Lincoln Clean Energy founder and CEO Declan Flanagan said: “In addition to creating high-paying local jobs, the Plum Creek Wind Project will result in over $3m in local community benefits annually in the Wayne County area. We are excited to begin a successful relationship with The J. M. Smucker Company.”
Schneider Electric Energy & Sustainability Services served as an advisor to Smucker on its selection of Plum Creek.
Source: Company Press Release