Mars Australia's Wodonga Plant to Become First Large-Scale Renewable Energy Site
Mars, Incorporated has taken a significant stride towards its net-zero emissions goal by 2050. The global confectionery and pet care giant has announced a major project at its Wodonga pet food manufacturing facility, which will become Australia's first large-scale steam-based manufacturing site to deploy a 100% renewable energy solution within the next two years.
Since 2015, Mars has reduced its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in its value chain by 16%, equivalent to 5.7 million metric tons. The company is now working with Australian Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG) to purchase Renewable Gas Guarantee of Origin certificates, offsetting over 10% of Mars Australia's total gas consumption.
The AUD$39.3 million Mars Wodonga Solar Thermal Plant will include an 18-megawatt Parabolic Trough Concentrated Solar Thermal (CST) plant for process steam and thermal energy storage. This technology, known as Electric Thermal Energy Storage (eTES), will provide cost-effective, renewable energy production. The project received a AUD$17.2 million grant from the Australian Government through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).
Craig Sargeant, general manager of Mars Petcare Australia and New Zealand, expressed pride in the achievement, stating that it marks a significant step towards sustainable and green energy manufacturing.
The Wodonga facility, which produces popular pet food brands like Pedigree and Whiskas, will lead the way in Mars' global commitment to 100% renewable energy for site-based operations by 2040. The company is also working with local businesses and government entities to create a renewable energy hub in northeast Victoria, further cementing its commitment to sustainability.
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