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As automakers look to fulfill the kinds of ambitious commitments they’ve made to cut energy use, they’re looking at any and every area of their business.
Most recently, Porsche — a car company associated more with performance than efficiency — has announced they have a big plan to source energy from the sun. But it’s not exactly slapping a panel on the back of its highly sought-after luxury vehicles.
Instead, the company plans to develop a solar energy microgrid at its Atlanta, Georgia, headquarters.
Specifically, Porsche has signed a 25-year operating agreement with Cherry Street Energy, a major non-utility solar energy provider, who will operate and maintain an onsite energy electrical network and then sell the solar power it generates back to the automaker.
The installation of the microgrid will be completed in 2023, and Porsche says it will enable the company to ditch 3.2 million pounds in annual carbon emissions. The project is part of a larger, $50 million investment in the company’s “Experience Center,” which is designed to draw visitors for “Porsche-themed” activities including driving, dining, and shopping.
The solar array will take on “a significant portion of the site’s annual electricity needs” according to Porsche, including powering the company’s onsite fleet of Taycans EVs.
Porsche has previously announced a pledge to reach carbon neutral status across its operations by 2030.
Image Credit: TIU