Target powers up with wind energy partnership

Target Corp. has expanded its commitment to renewable energy.



The discounter kicked off its first wind power partnership, buying a portion of the energy produced by a Starwood Energy Group wind farm to offset 100% of the energy used at 60 Target stores throughout Texas.



“At Target, we’re always on the lookout for sustainable ways to operate our facilities,” said John Leisen, VP, property management, Target, in a posting on Target’s website. “We’re thrilled to make our start with wind power in Texas, a leading market for wind energy. As we learn from this project, we’ll also be looking across the country for more opportunities to get involved in renewable energy projects in communities where we do business.”



Target is buying the energy from Starwood’s 211-megawatt Stephens Ranch Wood Project, a wind farm consisting of 118, 262-ft.-tall wind turbines that are spread out across 47,000 acres of land near the city of Lubbock, Texas. Target is buying the clean energy generated by 40 megawatts, enough to offset the energy used the 60 stores.



Target’s commitment to renewable energy is not new. As of early 2016, the chain had solar panels on the rooftop at 193 sites, with more installations planned throughout the rest of the year. It has set a goal to install rooftop solar panels on 500 of its stores and distribution centers by 2020.



In addition, Target was named a 2016 Energy Star Partner of the Year, the highest honor from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for energy-efficient companies. Currently, 76% of its buildings are Energy Star certified, which is more than any other retailer, according to Target. Buildings must meet strict guidelines for energy use and greenhouse gas emissions to achieve the certification. Target hopes to have 80% of its locations certified by 2020.