Lowe’s Gets Closer to Net-Zero Sustainability Goals With Robust Solar Panel Strategy
Lowe’s is looking to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and its latest strategy to install rooftop solar panels at locations across the U.S. is getting the company closer to its goal.
The company is looking to install the panels at 174 stores and distribution centers nationwide, including 20 sites that are currently in operation. Once implemented, the panels should provide an estimated 90% of the energy usage for each location.
Locations include 20 operational stores in New Jersey, with six more in development and scheduled to be operational later this year. Additionally, 55 stores in California, and 36 stores and three distribution centers in Illinois, where construction will begin later this year. Lastly, 52 stores and two distribution centers in California via a different partner, with construction also launching later this year.
By 2025, Lowe’s wants to reduce its scope 1 and scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 40% compared to 2016 levels. The advanced timeline projects an early completion as the company works with partners such as DSD Renewables, Greenskies Clean Focus, and Infinity Energy to install panels across the three states.
"At Lowe's, we are focused on operating responsibly and reducing our impact on the environment," said Chris Cassell, Lowe's vice president of corporate sustainability, in a statement. "Investing in renewable energy lowers operating costs and is an important step in reducing emissions associated with our stores and distribution centers. This initial rooftop solar portfolio is one example of the collaboration we seek with partners as we work toward our long-term and interim net-zero goals."
An Industry-Wide Push Toward Sustainable Operations
Lowe’s isn’t alone in its aggressive push toward transforming business operations to be more agile and earth-friendly. DTC lingerie and womenswear company Adore Me recently announced it plans to reduce its carbon footprint by leveraging a data platform that provides end-to-end visibility into its products’ environmental impacts.
In the retail-restaurant space, Chipotle is moving in a similar direction to Lowe’s, powering its locations with 100% renewable energy from wind power and solar through the purchase of certified renewable energy credits.
Other companies are zeroing in on transportation, implementing electric vehicles to lessen the load on the environment. Walmart, for example, is building its own EV fast-charging network, installing stations at thousands of locations (including Sam’s Club stores) across the country by 2030. Subway also plans to install a number of EV charging locations across the U.S. this year.
