Inghams Group Limited is making significant strides toward sustainability by entering into an innovative partnership with Lodestone Energy to ensure its operations in Aotearoa New Zealand are powered entirely by renewable energy. Effective from April next year, this groundbreaking agreement will see Lodestone Energy providing electricity generated from its solar farms to meet 100% of Inghams’ electricity needs across the country. Ed Alexander, Chief Executive of Inghams New Zealand, has emphasized that sustainability is a core component of their business operations, and this collaboration is a strategic move to achieve their sustainability goals. By sourcing renewable electricity, Inghams is not only offsetting its carbon footprint but also securing a more stable and cost-effective energy source.
Under the terms of the agreement, Lodestone Energy will also furnish Inghams with Renewable Energy Certificates, further enhancing the company’s sustainability credentials. This progressive initiative is set to dramatically reduce Inghams’ reliance on purchasing carbon credits for their Toitu net carbon zero certified products, such as Waitoa Free Range Chicken and Let’s Eat Plant-Based. Earlier this year, Inghams expanded its sustainable practices by acquiring Bostock Brothers’ organic chicken business for $33 million, reflecting a clear commitment to environmentally friendly operations. This step towards utilizing renewable energy underscores a broader industry trend where companies are increasingly integrating sustainable energy solutions to mitigate their environmental impact and reduce dependence on non-renewable resources.
The Broader Impact of Sustainable Practices
Starting next April, this groundbreaking deal will see Lodestone Energy providing electricity from its solar farms to meet 100% of Inghams’ electricity needs nationwide. Ed Alexander, Chief Executive of Inghams New Zealand, has emphasized that sustainability is a core component of their business operations, and this collaboration is a strategic move to achieve their sustainability goals. By sourcing renewable electricity, Inghams is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also securing a more stable and cost-effective energy source.
Under this agreement, Lodestone Energy will also provide Inghams with Renewable Energy Certificates, boosting the company’s sustainability credentials further. This initiative will significantly cut Inghams’ need to purchase carbon credits for their Toitu net carbon zero certified products, such as Waitoa Free Range Chicken and Let’s Eat Plant-Based. Earlier this year, Inghams acquired Bostock Brothers’ organic chicken business for $33 million, demonstrating a strong commitment to eco-friendly operations. This move towards renewable energy reflects a broader industry trend where companies are increasingly integrating sustainable energy solutions to mitigate environmental impact and reduce reliance on non-renewable resources.
