In Święte near Wroclaw, PepsiCo has inaugurated its largest photovoltaic farm in Poland, boasting a capacity of 3.5 MWp. This initiative is part of the company’s PLN 22 million investment in renewable energy sources this year, marking a significant step in its sustainability efforts. The photovoltaic farm spans approximately two hectares and features over 6,000 advanced photovoltaic modules equipped with dual-sided, high-efficiency cells. According to PepsiCo, this first phase of the project includes the installation of 2 kilometers of medium-voltage power lines, underscoring the scale of the investment. “This facility will generate 24% of the energy needs of our plant in Święte, which consumes 11.7 GWh of electricity annually. All energy produced by the photovoltaic farm will be used exclusively to power the factory,” said Tomasz Bronny, Director of PepsiCo’s Święte plant. PepsiCo’s Święte facility, opened in May 2023, represents a €1 billion investment and has created hundreds of jobs in the Wroclaw region. Located in the Środa Śląska municipality along the Wrocław–Środa Śląska road, it is the company’s most advanced factory in the European Union. The plant produces some of PepsiCo’s most recognizable snack brands, with the photovoltaic farm directly supporting these operations. On sunny days, the solar farm is expected to supply 100% of the energy required for the eRBS electric oven, which is essential for baking crisps. Additionally, the installation will meet the energy demands of a new production line scheduled for completion by mid-2025. This photovoltaic project is a cornerstone of PepsiCo’s global PepsiCo Positive (pep+) strategy, aimed at transforming its operations to benefit both people and the planet. “Investing in renewable energy sources is a strategic priority for us, and we plan to expand such initiatives across Poland in the coming years,” stated Ugur Bulduk, Vice President of Supply Chain. Since entering the Polish market in 1991, PepsiCo has grown to employ over 3,000 people across the country. Its operations include production facilities in Michrów, Żnin, Grodzisk Mazowiecki, and Tomaszów Mazowiecki, in addition to the Święte plant. The company continues to invest in local communities and sustainable practices, reinforcing its commitment to Poland’s economic and environmental progress. Source: PepsiCo and Wroclaw.pl