Leading automaker Stellantis announced a partnership with DTE Energy to add 400 MW of new solar projects in Michigan through DTE's MIGreenPower voluntary renewable energy program. It is one of the largest renewable energy purchases in the U.S. from a utility, ranked second to the deal by another automaker giant Ford in August.
Earlier this year, Stellantis established goals to achieve carbon net zero globally by 2038 in its Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, in which Stellantis positions ethical responsibility as its core and dedicates itself to value creation for all stakeholders.
"Our success—indeed our survival—will depend more and more on how completely we embrace the values of collaboration and partnership as strategic imperatives that help us achieve breakthrough business outcomes. This agreement is an outstanding example of how truly great companies like DTE Energy and Stellantis can unleash their passion and expertise to shape a more sustainable world for our customers and our communities," said Mark Stewart, COO of Stellantis North America.
Through the MIGreenPower program, Stellantis will be able to replace 100% of its electricity use at 70 southeast Michigan sites with solar power by 2026, reducing the company's carbon emissions in North America by 50% and across its manufacturing facilities by 30%.
DTE Energy is a Detroit-based diversified energy company involving both utility and non-utility businesses. The deal with Stellantis is another commitment to creating a cleaner Michigan for all residents.
"Investments like this accelerate our state's transition to clean energy, create jobs and strengthen our state's economy. Adding 400 megawatts of new solar for Stellantis will result in a cleaner environment for Michigan families, communities and businesses, and create hundreds of jobs during project construction," said Jerry Norcia, Chairman and CEO of DTE Energy.
DTE's MIGreenPower program is among the largest voluntary renewable energy programs in the U.S. To date, MIGreenPower customers have enrolled 4 million MWh of clean energy in the program annually, equivalent to a conversion of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by over 3 million tons.
Corporate power purchase agreements have become an efficient and effective way for large corporations to accelerate their energy transition and achieve net-zero goals. Last month, automobile giant Renault Group in France signed a 350-MW solar purchase contract with Voltalia.
*Cover image: Stellantis