Walmart commits to 100% renewable energy

In addition to onsite solar, the company will continue to develop projects in wind, fuel cells and other technologies. It will also procure offsite renewable energy from utility-scale projects, such as large wind projects, micro-hydro projects and geothermal.

“Walmart’s new sustainability goals are not only a sign of strong leadership for the company, they can spur others around the world to take action. Walmart’s commitments show that it understands the urgency of embracing renewable energy to reduce pollution and greenhouse gases, while driving business growth that is cleaner and more efficient,” said Andrew Steer, President and CEO, World Resources Institute.

“WRI has provided advice on Walmart’s renewable energy strategy and has seen the company in action in the United States and in emerging markets, like India, where Walmart is participating in the Green Power Market Development Group. By following through on these commitments, Walmart can set a powerful example for businesses and government officials alike who are looking to move to a more sustainable and low-carbon future.”

In order to meet its energy efficiency goal between now and 2020, Walmart projects to increase LED usage in sales floor lighting, parking lots and other applications. Walmart will also focus on market-relevant scalable technologies, including high efficiency HVAC and refrigeration systems and sophisticated energy/building control systems.

These new commitments reinforce the sustainability goals Walmart established in 2005: to be supplied 100 percent by renewable energy; to create zero waste; and to sell products that sustain people and the environment.

Renewables and energy efficiency have long been part of Walmart’s strategy to operate at every day low cost while also allowing Walmart to be a good steward of the environment.

Since 2005, Walmart has been innovating in renewable energy and increasing energy efficiency. Walmart’s buildings are currently powered by 1.1 billion kWh of Walmart-driven renewable energy – enough for a U.S. city of 250,000 people.

Added to the renewable energy the company receives from the grid, today, 21 percent of its buildings’ total electricity and 17 percent of buildings’ total energy use is currently supplied by renewable energy.

About Walmart

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. helps people around the world save money and live better – anytime and anywhere – in retail stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, more than 200 million customers and members visit our 10,500 stores under 69 banners in 27 countries and e-commerce websites in 10 countries. With fiscal year 2013 sales of approximately $466 billion, Walmart employs more than 2.2 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy and employment opportunity.

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