Brown-Forman partners with YLEM Energy on 630kW solar project
Brown-Forman has partnered with YLEM Energy to develop a 630kW solar array that will enable it to deliver 516,000 KWp of clean, renewable energy each year at Benriach Bond, Newbridge, Edinburgh.
The partnership will support the producer of brands such as Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey and Benriach Scotch Whisky in its objective of sourcing 100 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The distillery is committed to the Scotch Whisky Association’s “Race to Zero” pledge to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. The partnership with YLEM Energy is expected to offset 120 tonnes of CO2 each year.
The 630kWp solar system will be part of YLEM Energy’s Xchange product. Launched in April 2023, Xchange will allow Brown-Forman to export excess renewable energy generated at its Benriach Bond to the National Grid and reduce its onsite energy costs.
Andy Battjes, director, global environmental sustainability at Brown-Forman stated that it is committed to supporting the development of new sources of renewable electricity in order to reach its goal of 100% renewable electricity by 2030 as it is a member of RE100.
“Our partnership with YLEM to install a new rooftop solar system at our Newbridge bottling facility is the latest example of turning our commitment into action,” Battjes said.
Ian Gadsby, managing director of YLEM Energy said: “We’re delighted to be working with Brown-Forman to help them achieve their sustainability goals and play a role in tackling climate change.”
“The recent energy crisis has seen many businesses diversify their energy supply while ensuring it comes from renewable sources. As part of YLEM’s Xchange product, Brown-Forman can be confident they will be using renewable energy, while reducing their energy bills by exporting any excess generation to the National Grid.”
Kieran McGuire, Brown-Forman’s European environment health and safety manager said: “This exciting solar project at our Newbridge Bottling Plant really underpins Brown-Forman’s overall sustainability targets and those of the Scotch Whisky Association. By partnering with YLEM Energy on this project, we have been able to draw on their wealth of expertise in this field and we look forward to their delivery of this project in the near future.”
The solar array at Benriach Bond at Newbridge, Edinburgh is the first project between YLEM Energy and Brown-Forman.
