Apple to install 2GW of renewable energy power in China

Apple is set to partner with its Chinese suppliers for the installation of 2GW of renewable energy capacity.

The power generated will be used by suppliers in their manufacturing operations in the country.

This is part of the technology firm’s goal to push its manufacturing partners to become more energy efficient and cut down the carbon footprint.

In line with this goal, Apple’s major supplier Foxconn will construct 400MW of solar project in the Henan Province by 2018.

Foxconn Technology Group founder and CEO Terry Gou said: "We are excited to embark on this initiative with Apple. 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.

"Sustainability is a core pillar in Foxconn’s strategy and we are committed to investing in green manufacturing."

On the other hand, Apple is planning to build over 200MW of solar projects in the northern, eastern and southern grid regions of China, in a bid to offset the energy used in its supply chain.

The solar power produced by the projects will be enough to provide energy to over 265,000 homes annually in China.

Apple CEO Tim Cook said: "Climate change is one of the great challenges of our time, and the time for action is now.

"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 clean energy initiatives are expected to cut down greenhouse gas emissions by more than 20 million metric tons by the end of 2020.