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In a major push towards its ambitious carbon neutrality goals, Google has announced a series of power purchase agreements that secure over 700 megawatts of clean energy across Europe. This includes the company’s largest offshore wind projects to date, solidifying its commitment to operating data centers and campuses on 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030.
Landmark Offshore Wind Projects in the Netherlands:
The Netherlands, synonymous with windmills for centuries, takes center stage in Google’s decarbonization strategy. Partnering with Shell and Eneco, Google is supporting the development of two new offshore wind farms, HKN V and HKW VI, generating a combined 478 megawatts of clean energy. These subsidy-free projects represent a significant leap, not only contributing to 6% of the Netherlands’ annual electricity consumption but also pushing Google’s Dutch operations beyond 90% carbon-free energy within two years.
Spreading the Green Energy Net Across Europe:
Beyond the Netherlands, Google is diversifying its renewable energy portfolio with green energy deals in Italy, Poland, and Belgium. In Italy, a first-of-its-kind agreement with ERG supports a 47-megawatt onshore wind project, projected to push Google’s Italian offices and cloud regions towards 90% carbon-free energy by 2025. Building on its initial foray into Polish renewables, Google signed agreements with GoldenPeaks Capital for 106 megawatts of solar generation capacity. This additional clean energy is expected to power Google’s Polish offices and cloud region to over 90% carbon-free operation by 2025. Finally, in Belgium, two new green energy deals with Aspiravi and Luminus bring 11 new onshore wind farms online, providing 84 megawatts of clean energy and propelling Google’s Belgian operations to near 85% carbon-free energy by 2024.
More Than Just Megawatts: Building a Resilient Future:
These agreements are not merely isolated transactions; they represent a strategic move towards a more sustainable future. Google recognizes the increasing reliance on digital services, cloud computing, and AI technologies, and acknowledges the responsibility that comes with it. By investing in renewable energy solutions, Google aims to not only decarbonize its own operations but also contribute to a more resilient and sustainable electricity grid for all. Furthermore, by strategically shifting workloads to grids with cleaner energy sources, Google strives to minimize its environmental impact while maintaining the speed, safety, and reliability expected from its services.
Related Article: Microsoft Signs Carbon Removal Deal with Nature-Based Startup Grassroots Carbon
A Global Commitment, Locally Delivered:
While these European deals mark a significant step forward, Google’s commitment to carbon neutrality extends far beyond the continent. The company’s ambitious 24/7 carbon-free energy goal encompasses its global operations, and these European agreements solidify its unwavering dedication to achieving this target. With continued investments in renewable energy solutions and strategic partnerships, Google sets a powerful example for other tech giants and paves the way for a greener future powered by sustainable innovation.