Switching to renewable energy is no longer an option for corporations—it’s a necessity. The biggest brands in the world are committing to 100% clean energy, pushing sustainability to the forefront of business strategy. Whether it’s to meet carbon neutrality goals, reduce costs, or keep up with government regulations, companies are making major moves toward a greener future.
1. Over 400 global companies have committed to 100% renewable energy through the RE100 initiative
The RE100 initiative is a global group of businesses pledging to go 100% renewable. These companies come from every industry—tech, retail, banking, and manufacturing. By committing to this goal, they push for better energy solutions and inspire others to follow.
For businesses looking to join, the first step is conducting an energy audit. Find out where your power comes from and how much of it is fossil-fuel-based. Then, research renewable energy providers in your area. Many utility companies now offer green energy plans that allow businesses to make the switch easily.
2. Google has been operating on 100% renewable energy since 2017
Google is one of the first tech giants to reach this milestone. It achieved 100% renewable energy by purchasing wind and solar power to match its electricity consumption.
One key lesson from Google’s strategy is to use Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). These allow companies to buy renewable energy directly from suppliers at a fixed rate. This approach ensures price stability and long-term sustainability. If your company is serious about going green, explore PPAs as an option.
3. Amazon aims to reach 100% renewable energy by 2025, five years ahead of its original 2030 target
Amazon has significantly accelerated its renewable energy adoption. It has invested in over 300 wind and solar projects worldwide. This rapid shift shows that aggressive sustainability goals are achievable with strong investment and planning.
Companies looking to follow Amazon’s example should start by setting clear timelines. Break down your renewable energy adoption into phases. Focus on transitioning office spaces first, then warehouses, data centers, and other high-energy operations.
4. Apple has been running on 100% renewable energy for all operations since 2018
Apple has not only achieved 100% clean energy but also helps its suppliers make the switch. Through its Supplier Clean Energy Program, Apple encourages manufacturers to use renewable power.
A key takeaway here is the importance of working with partners. If your company relies on vendors or suppliers, push them toward sustainability. Set requirements for using green energy in your contracts.
5. Microsoft has pledged to be 100% renewable-powered by 2025 and carbon negative by 2030
Microsoft is taking things a step further by committing to remove more carbon than it emits. It’s investing heavily in renewable energy projects, carbon capture, and efficiency improvements.
For businesses, this highlights the need to go beyond just using renewable energy. Consider implementing energy efficiency programs to reduce overall power use. Even small actions—like upgrading to LED lighting or optimizing HVAC systems—can have a major impact.
6. Meta (Facebook) reached 100% renewable energy for its global operations in 2020
Meta achieved this goal by investing in large-scale solar and wind projects. The company also focuses on using less energy in its data centers, which are among the most power-intensive facilities.
The lesson here is that renewable energy adoption isn’t just about switching power sources—it’s also about reducing demand. Look for ways to cut down energy waste in your facilities.
7. IKEA has already transitioned to 100% renewable electricity across its direct operations
IKEA isn’t just using renewable power—it’s generating its own. The company has invested heavily in wind farms and solar panels for its stores and warehouses.
For businesses considering this route, onsite generation can be a great option. Solar panels on rooftops can lower costs and provide energy independence. Evaluate whether your facilities can support solar or wind installations.
8. Google is the world’s largest corporate buyer of renewable energy, securing over 7 GW of clean power
Google’s large-scale energy deals have allowed it to lock in long-term renewable power contracts, making operations more stable and cost-effective.
Even smaller businesses can use a similar approach. Partnering with a green energy provider for a long-term contract can reduce costs and protect against energy price spikes.
9. Amazon has signed contracts for more than 20 GW of renewable energy capacity, making it the largest corporate purchaser globally
Amazon’s rapid expansion into renewable energy showcases the power of bulk purchasing. The company’s large energy contracts help accelerate the global transition to clean power.
For businesses looking to do the same, consider joining corporate energy buying groups. These allow smaller businesses to pool resources and negotiate better deals on renewable energy.
10. Tesla runs all its factories on renewable energy, with a strong focus on solar and battery storage
Tesla has built energy resilience by combining solar power with battery storage. This ensures uninterrupted operations, even during grid outages.
For businesses, investing in energy storage solutions can provide reliability. If power outages are a concern, look into battery backup systems to complement renewable energy adoption.
11. Walmart aims to be powered by 100% renewable energy by 2035 and has already surpassed 36% renewable energy use
Walmart is focusing on both renewable energy purchases and onsite solar generation.
Retail businesses should consider rooftop solar installations. Large store roofs are perfect for solar panels, helping to reduce energy costs.
12. General Motors (GM) is committed to using 100% renewable energy in U.S. operations by 2025 and globally by 2035
GM’s strategy includes building solar and wind farms to power its factories.
Manufacturers can follow GM’s lead by exploring local renewable energy programs. Many regions offer incentives for businesses that install solar or buy clean energy.
13. Intel has been purchasing 100% renewable electricity for its global operations since 2020
Intel also focuses on energy efficiency in its chip-making facilities.
Tech companies should combine renewable energy adoption with efficiency improvements. Smart energy management systems can optimize power use and cut costs.
14. Unilever achieved 100% renewable electricity for all operations across five continents
Unilever’s success proves that global businesses can make the switch, regardless of location.
For businesses with international operations, sourcing renewable energy in every country can be complex. Partnering with global energy providers can simplify this process.
15. Nike reached 100% renewable electricity for its North American operations and is expanding globally
Nike started by tackling its largest markets first.
Companies can adopt a phased approach, transitioning major locations first before expanding to smaller ones.
16. Nestlé has committed to 100% renewable electricity across its global manufacturing sites by 2025
Nestlé’s goal involves working closely with suppliers to make the transition.
If your business relies on suppliers, include renewable energy requirements in your procurement strategy.
17. Disney aims to reach 100% renewable electricity in its direct operations by 2030
Disney has been gradually increasing its use of renewable energy by investing in solar farms and wind power projects. The company also leverages its vast real estate, including theme parks, to install solar panels and other clean energy sources.
For companies looking to transition, setting a realistic long-term goal is crucial. Breaking it down into phases—such as targeting administrative offices first, then production sites, and finally logistics—can make the transition more manageable.
Additionally, businesses with large properties can explore solar installations to offset their energy consumption.
18. Coca-Cola European Partners have already transitioned to 100% renewable electricity
Coca-Cola’s European arm has successfully transitioned all its operations to renewable energy. This achievement has been made possible through corporate power purchase agreements (PPAs), where the company buys clean energy directly from suppliers.
For businesses looking to replicate this strategy, PPAs offer an effective way to secure renewable power at stable prices. If you’re a large business with significant energy needs, working with a renewable energy provider for a long-term contract can help lock in favorable rates and ensure a steady supply of clean electricity.
19. Goldman Sachs is targeting 100% renewable energy for global operations by 2025
As a financial services giant, Goldman Sachs recognizes the importance of sustainability in corporate responsibility. The company is not just transitioning its own energy use but also encouraging investments in green energy projects.
Businesses in finance or other service industries can follow this example by using renewable energy credits (RECs) to offset their energy consumption. Additionally, companies with significant capital can explore investing in renewable energy projects, both as a sustainability effort and as a potential revenue stream.
20. Bank of America has committed to 100% renewable electricity for all facilities by 2025
Like many major corporations, Bank of America is making sustainability a core part of its corporate strategy. The company is prioritizing solar and wind energy purchases to meet its energy needs.
For businesses with multiple locations, transitioning to renewable energy across all facilities may seem overwhelming. A useful approach is to begin with corporate offices and then expand to data centers, retail branches, and other locations. Many energy providers now offer renewable energy options tailored for multi-site businesses.
21. McDonald’s plans to use 100% renewable energy in its corporate offices and restaurants
McDonald’s has already installed solar panels in several of its restaurants and is working to expand this initiative across its global footprint. The company is also using wind power to help offset its energy consumption.
For businesses in the food and hospitality industry, reducing energy usage through LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and smart thermostats can complement renewable energy adoption. Combining energy efficiency with renewable power can significantly lower costs and improve sustainability efforts.
22. SAP has operated on 100% renewable electricity since 2014
SAP is one of the earliest adopters of renewable energy among tech companies. The company made this transition by purchasing renewable energy certificates (RECs) and investing in direct renewable power sources.
Smaller businesses can follow a similar path by starting with RECs. This is an affordable way to offset electricity use with clean energy, even if direct renewable power isn’t immediately available. Over time, companies can gradually transition to direct clean energy sources.
23. Sony aims to use 100% renewable energy in its operations by 2030
Sony is gradually shifting its global operations toward renewable power. The company has taken a regional approach, focusing first on its North American and European facilities.
If your business operates in multiple markets, a similar strategy can be effective. Begin with regions where renewable energy options are readily available and expand to more complex areas later. This ensures steady progress while overcoming location-specific challenges.
24. Vodafone has already achieved 100% renewable electricity use in its European networks
Vodafone’s success in Europe highlights how telecommunication companies can transition to clean energy. The company has made bulk purchases of wind and solar power while upgrading infrastructure to be more energy-efficient.
For businesses in energy-intensive industries, combining renewable energy with efficiency upgrades can maximize sustainability efforts. Investing in modern, energy-saving equipment can significantly cut electricity usage, making the switch to renewables even more impactful.
25. Johnson & Johnson plans to reach 100% renewable electricity globally by 2025
As a global healthcare giant, Johnson & Johnson is leveraging solar and wind power to transition to 100% clean energy. The company is also pushing its supply chain partners to follow suit.
If your business relies on multiple suppliers, consider setting sustainability requirements for them. Offering incentives for vendors that use renewable energy can accelerate green adoption across your supply chain.
26. BT Group (British Telecom) has been operating on 100% renewable electricity since 2020
BT Group has successfully switched all its operations to clean energy, demonstrating that even telecom companies can achieve full renewable adoption.
For companies in industries with high electricity demands, working closely with utility providers to secure clean power agreements can be a game-changer. Many providers now offer green energy plans that businesses can opt into with little hassle.
27. L’Oréal reached 100% renewable electricity in its U.S. operations and is moving toward global adoption
L’Oréal has used a mix of on-site renewable generation and energy purchases to achieve 100% renewable electricity for its American operations.
Businesses looking to do the same should consider a hybrid approach. Installing solar panels or wind turbines on-site while also purchasing renewable energy from providers can create a well-balanced energy strategy.
28. IBM aims to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2030 with an interim goal of 75% by 2025
IBM’s approach to renewable energy adoption is gradual, with clear milestones along the way. By setting an interim target of 75% by 2025, the company ensures steady progress.
Businesses should take note of this phased strategy. Setting incremental goals rather than aiming for an immediate 100% transition can make the process more manageable and financially feasible.
29. Heineken has pledged to run on 100% renewable electricity by 2030
Heineken is investing in solar panels and biogas to power its breweries. The company is also experimenting with innovative green energy solutions like hydrogen-powered production.
Manufacturing businesses can follow this example by exploring alternative energy sources beyond just wind and solar. Depending on location and industry, bioenergy, hydropower, and even geothermal energy can be viable options.
30. BMW Group has transitioned to 100% renewable electricity for its global production sites
BMW has successfully shifted all its manufacturing plants to renewable energy, showing that even energy-intensive industries can go green.
For manufacturers, exploring direct partnerships with renewable energy providers can provide stable, cost-effective clean power. Additionally, energy-efficient machinery and optimized production processes can complement a clean energy strategy.
wrapping it up
The corporate world is rapidly embracing renewable energy, with industry leaders setting ambitious goals and proving that 100% clean energy is not just possible but also practical.
Companies like Google, Apple, Amazon, and Microsoft have demonstrated that sustainability can go hand in hand with profitability and innovation. Meanwhile, manufacturers like BMW and General Motors show that even high-energy industries can transition to renewable power with the right strategy.
