In 2019, Target set a big goal, announcing our aim to source 100% of Target’s electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The inspiration? As always, a brighter, more sustainable future for our guests, team members and the planet. Fast forward to today, and we’re proud to share the next big step toward that goal: three new renewable energy projects that will address nearly a quarter of our electricity use with solar and wind power. That means, along with our existing partnerships, we’ll purchase nearly 50% of our electricity from renewable sources once these projects are operational.
“As we strive to create a more sustainable future for all, our renewable energy efforts are critical to maintaining vibrant communities for years to come,” says John Leisen, Target’s vice president of property management. “Our new solar and wind contracts represent a big step toward reaching our climate goals and nurturing a healthier planet for the communities we call home.”
These latest efforts include renewable power purchase agreements for two solar projects in Texas, including the Golden Buckle Solar Project with Savion, and we’ll be purchasing renewable power from the Haystack Wind Project, based in Nebraska, with Ørsted. Together, our portion of the projects will generate the equivalent electricity required to power 101,000 homes each year and will pace Target ahead of schedule in meeting our 2030 goal. But we can’t tackle climate challenges alone: Major Target suppliers, including PepsiCo and Hormel Foods, have also signed on to at least one of these projects. With their partnership, we’ll take an important step toward another of Target’s climate goals: reducing our greenhouse gas emissions from operations, purchased goods and services by 30% below 2017 levels by 2030.
And we’re all about helping our guests make more sustainable choices, too. One recent example: completing our 114th electrical vehicle charging site at a Target store at the end of 2020, exceeding our goal set in 2018 and enabling guests to drive up, plug in at more than 1,000 charging spaces and shop. From reducing plastics to installing rooftop solar systems on over 540 stores to date, we’re committed to using our size and scale together with our guests, team members and stakeholders to make a positive impact. For more on our efforts, check out our sustainability initiatives and commitments for the years ahead.
