Kmart hits 100% renewable electricity target

Kmart hits 100% renewable electricity target 

Australian retailer Kmart Group has announced that it has achieved its goal of using 100% renewable electricity across its operations, marking a significant milestone in the company’s sustainability journey. 

According to the company, the renewable electricity commitment now covers 448 Kmart and Target stores, 10 distribution centres and 12 offices across Australia and international operations. Electricity used at these locations is matched through a combination of on-site renewable generation and renewable power purchase agreements (PPAs). 

The renewable energy supply is supported by several large-scale projects across Australia, including the New England Solar Farm in New South Wales, Numurkah Solar Farm in Victoria, Tailem Bend 2 Solar Farm in South Australia, and the Western Downs Green Power Hub in Queensland. In locations where electricity is supplied by landlords, Kmart Group offsets consumption by surrendering Large-scale Generation Certificates (LGCs) to match energy use. 

Alexandra Staley, Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer at Kmart Group, said the achievement represents an important step in reducing the company’s environmental footprint. 

“With hundreds of stores and distribution centres across Australia and New Zealand, reaching 100% renewable electricity for our operations is a major milestone for Kmart Group and an important step toward our goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2030,” Staley said. 

Australian Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson MP also welcomed the milestone, noting that large companies such as Kmart Group are demonstrating how the business sector can actively contribute to Australia’s transition to clean energy. 

Since committing to the renewable electricity target, Kmart Group has also reported a 4.9% reduction in total electricity consumption compared with 2021, despite opening 10 additional stores across Australia and New Zealand. The reduction has been driven by improvements in energy-efficient lighting, heating and cooling systems across its retail network. 

The company said it will continue to focus on energy efficiency and sustainable operations as part of its broader environmental strategy. 

Reference：retail word magazine