AkzoNobel Ramps Up Use of Renewable Energy with Vattenfall
May 17, 2017 /3BL Media/ - A new contract with energy company Vattenfall will enable AkzoNobel to ramp up the supply of renewable electricity to its facilities in Sweden and Finland. Hydro power and wind already make up the majority of the electricity supplied by Vattenfall, and the companies have agreed to further increase the share of renewable energy to the facilities to 100% by 2020.
AkzoNobel currently has a global renewable energy share of 40%; this contract takes the share in the Nordic region to 60%. "As an energy intensive company, we are always looking to do more with less," says Anders Österlund, Energy Director, AkzoNobel. "This contract provides a reliable and affordable energy supply in support of our sustainability strategy."
The contract supplies AkzoNobel with 1.25 terawatt hours of electricity per year to power six Specialty Chemicals sites and one Performance Coatings facility. That amount of electricity is equivalent to the energy use of approximately 125,000 Swedish households.
In addition, the agreement allows the two companies to work together to balance swings in renewable power supply on the Swedish national grid. This is particularly important as the rising share of wind and solar power will lead to larger volatility due to swings in supply.
"AkzoNobel's aim to increase the use of renewable energy fits well with the strategy of Vattenfall to power climate-smarter living," says Branislav Slavic, Head of Business Sales Nordic, Vattenfall. "AkzoNobel was looking for a partner for long-term cooperation, renewable electricity and flexibility in supplies. I am pleased that Vattenfall can enable our customers like AkzoNobel to reach their sustainability targets. The deal shows that it is possible to combine customer needs and contribute to a climate smart society."
About AkzoNobel
AkzoNobel creates everyday essentials to make people's lives more liveable and inspiring. As a leading global paints and coatings company and a major producer of specialty chemicals, we supply essential ingredients, essential protection and essential color to industries and consumers worldwide. Backed by a pioneering heritage, our innovative products and sustainable technologies are designed to meet the growing demands of our fast-changing planet, while making life easier. Headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, we have approximately 46,000 people in around 80 countries, while our portfolio includes well-known brands such as Dulux, Sikkens, International, Interpon and Eka. Consistently ranked as a leader in sustainability, we are dedicated to energizing cities and communities while creating a protected, colorful world where life is improved by what we do.