Microsoft is getting closer to its goal of using 100% renewable energy by agreeing to purchase solar energy from panels installed on public housing and government buildings in Singapore.
With this agreement, Microsoft strengthens its commitment to sustainability, despite the emission challenges posed by its investments in artificial intelligence.
Singapore's Largest Solar Project
The SolarNova 8 project, owned by EDP Renewables, will install solar panels on 1,075 public housing buildings and 101 government buildings, with a capacity of up to 200 megawatt-peak (MWp). Microsoft will purchase all the solar energy exported to Singapore’s power grid from this project.
The overall SolarNova program is expected to generate 420 gigawatt-hours annually, covering about 5% of Singapore's energy consumption, with SolarNova 8 being the largest phase of the program.
EDPR secured Phase 8 of the SolarNova program in February, making it the largest solar project in Singapore and the biggest initiative within the government’s program.
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Long-Term Agreement
On August 27, EDPR and Microsoft solidified their partnership by signing a 20-year agreement. This collaboration began in 2018 when Microsoft first purchased 100% of the energy from the 60MWp solar project owned by Sunseap Group (now EDP Renewables APAC).
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Ambitious Goals
The SolarNova program, launched in 2014 by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) and Housing Development Board (HDB), aims to accelerate the adoption of photovoltaic solar systems in Singapore. Through this program, HDB coordinates public sector demand for the installation of solar panels on HDB blocks and government sites.
Microsoft, which has set ambitious targets to become a carbon-negative company by 2030, is now intensifying its efforts. After experiencing a 30% increase in emissions last year due to investments in AI, the tech company is making more concrete steps toward achieving its climate goals. This agreement is a tangible demonstration of Microsoft's commitment to investing in clean and sustainable energy solutions.
