On a mountain in central Sweden, one of the largest land-based wind power projects in Europe is taking shape. Once operational in 2015, the wind farm will generate 90MW of electricity that will not help to power homes or offices, but stores owned by Ikea. The Scandinavian retailer has ambitions to generate 100 per cent of its energy from renewable sources by 2020.
The Glotesvalen wind farm will make Ikea completely self-sufficient in energy in Sweden and raise renewables’ share of its global energy use to between 70 and 80 per cent. It has earmarked investments in renewable energy of up to €1.5bn, focusing on solar and wind.
It is both “a values and a hearts and minds exercise”, says Steve Howard, chief sustainability officer at Ikea. By reducing its carbon footprint and securing its own supply, the group is not only being environmentally responsible but also reducing its costs.