Lubricant manufacturer and supplier FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA has concluded a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Solareff to procure solar PV system-generated electricity, reveals Sustainability Director Esther Seabi, to reduce the company’s yearly CO2e emissions. “This is a major step towards achieving our targets,” she notes.

“The PPA will significantly increase our use of renewable energy from around 11% to 30% of our total electricity consumed. It is a key project for us to achieve our net zero targets,” comments Managing Director, Paul Deppe.  In terms of the newly signed PPA, Solareff will design, install and operate a solar PV system that will provide power for the warehouse, head office and manufacturing facilities.

The FUCHS Group has rolled out ambitious targets which include mandatory use of renewable energy. While the uptake of renewable energy is more advanced in Europe, Seabi says multinationals like FUCHS are ensuring that their regional operations adhere to all local and international regulations regarding sustainability, including corporate goals and targets. This helps to set a global benchmark. “It is an exciting journey,” says Seabi.

FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA has developed its own roadmap to 2030 to reduce its GHG emissions by 46% compared to 2021. These initiatives include increased uptake of renewable energy through the PPA and future electricity wheeling and energy efficiency projects.