Dairygold Signs First Corporate Power Purchase Agreement with Farmer Member
Dairygold, a leading dairy processor in Ireland, has recently made history by signing a Corporate Power Purchase Agreement (cPPA) with one of its Farmer Members. This groundbreaking agreement involves Dairygold sourcing renewable solar electricity from a local farm to power its processing plants, marking a significant step towards sustainability and decarbonisation.
Dairygold’s Renewable Energy Initiative:
In a move that sets a new standard in the industry, Dairygold has partnered with Michael Quirk, a local Grain Supplier, to procure 5,000 MWh per year of renewable solar energy from Lurrig Solar Farm on Michael’s farm in Aghada, Co. Cork. This renewable energy will be utilized to fuel Dairygold’s processing operations, aligning with the company’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Impact on Dairygold’s Operations:
The collaboration between Dairygold and Lurrig Solar Farm signifies a milestone in the dairy sector, showcasing the integration of locally produced renewable electricity into Dairygold’s dairy processing facilities. Michael Harte, Dairygold’s Interim Chief Executive, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasising the importance of such initiatives in advancing Dairygold’s sustainability strategy.
Michael Quirk, the owner of Lurrig Farm and a long-standing member of Dairygold Co-Operative, shared his excitement about the agreement, highlighting the role of farmers in embracing renewable energy opportunities. As pioneers in the renewable energy sector, Michael and his family are proud to contribute to Dairygold’s sustainability journey and inspire fellow farmers to explore similar avenues.
This pioneering agreement is part of Dairygold’s broader decarbonisation programme aimed at reducing carbon emissions from its processing and transport operations. Alongside initiatives like the development of decarbonisation roadmaps and the FarmGen Solar PV programme for suppliers, Dairygold has also installed solar PV systems at key facilities like the Lombardstown Mill, underscoring its commitment to sustainable practices.
In conclusion, Dairygold’s innovative partnership with a Farmer Member to procure renewable solar electricity exemplifies a proactive approach towards sustainability and environmental stewardship in the dairy industry. By championing such initiatives, Dairygold sets a precedent for fostering renewable energy adoption and driving positive change within the agri-food sector in Ireland.
