Apple to build 200MW of PV in China

Tech giant Apple will build 200MW of solar in China and work with its supply chain partners in the country to develop a total of 2GW of clean energy capacity.

The company made the announcement as its 40MW project in Sichuan province reached completion. It claims the solar farm now makes its Chinese retail and admin operations carbon neutral.

“Climate change is one of the great challenges of our time, and the time for action is now,” said Tim Cook, CEO, Apple. “The transition to a new green economy requires innovation, ambition and purpose. We believe passionately in leaving the world better than we found it and hope that many other suppliers, partners and other companies join us in this important effort."

Apple’s main manufacturing partner, Foxconn, will build 400MW of solar in Henan province by 2018 and has committed to generate as much clean energy as it uses in the manufacture of iPhones.

“Our companies share a vision for driving sustainability and I hope that this renewable energy project will serve as a catalyst for continued efforts to promote a greener ecosystem in our industry and beyond,” said Terry Gou, founder and CEO, Foxconn Technology Group. “Sustainability is a core pillar in Foxconn’s strategy and we are committed to investing in green manufacturing,” he said.

In February, Apple signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with First Solar for 130MW of solar capacity over a period of 25 years. The contract was valued at US$850 million.