Hyundai, Kia join global initiative toward 100% renewable electricity

MANILA: Hyundai Motor Group stated that four of its major affiliate firms, including Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation, have joined Climate Group's RE100, a global program aimed at large corporations moving to 100% renewable energy.

Hyundai Mobis Co. and Hyundai Wia have also joined RE100. All four affiliates have signed up for the program, which involves over 350 other international corporations, with intentions to ramp up efforts to use 100% renewable electricity across the company's global operations.

The four companies aim to build a collaborative RE100 response system at global sites where they operate in order to achieve carbon neutrality. The group is exploring different renewable energy procurement methods, including self-production via solar panels, power purchase agreements (PPA) with wind and solar energy providers, and purchasing through Korea Electric Power Corporation's (KEPCO) "Green Premium" program.

Other group affiliates have recognized the significance of transitioning to 100% renewable energy and aim to employ it actively in their operations in the future. The Kia Tigers baseball club will work with Kia. Hyundai Mobis will work with HL GreenPower, Hyundai IHL, and GIT. Hyundai Wia will work with Wia Magna Powertrain and Hyundai Wia Turbo.

The Group targets to obtain carbon neutrality through different methods, including RE100 programs. The Group will establish an environmentally friendly smart factory for efficient production, vehicle electrification acceleration, and carbon neutrality in its global supply chain.

RE100 is a global project spearheaded by the Climate Group and CDP, gathering the world's leading corporations committed to 100% renewable electricity. To be a member, a company must have a significant power footprint (100GWh annually) and must submit mid- to long-term renewable energy power securing targets within a year after joining. RE100 has around 350 members from around the world.

Photo from Hyundai Motor Group

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