Treasury Wine Estates (TWE), the producer behind iconic Australian wines like Penfolds, Wynns, Squealing Pig, and Pepperjack, has achieved a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainability.
Today, the company proudly announced the activation of the largest winery solar installation in Australia, solidifying its path towards producing its world-famous wines using 100% renewable electricity by the end of 2024.
The awe-inspiring solar system features nearly 6,000 solar panels at TWE’s Barossa Winery and Production Centre in South Australia. This impressive array is projected to generate over 5,500 megawatt-hours of electricity annually, equivalent to powering 900 homes.
By harnessing the sun’s energy to power their operations, TWE is making a bold statement about their dedication to environmental stewardship.
Chief Supply & Sustainability Officer for TWE, Kerrin Petty, said the investment in transitioning to 100% renewable electricity was prompted by the urgency to decarbonise TWE’s global operations.
Speaking at the official launch alongside Member for Schubert Ashton Hurn MP, Mr. Petty said “Installing solar panels is the most significant contribution we can make to move closer to our ambition of net zero direct emissions.”
“Unveiling the solar system here in the Barossa complements the other systems that are already operational, or scheduled to be completed in the coming year, at our sites in Australia, New Zealand, France, Italy, and the US. Our Napa Valley, California installation of 13,000 solar panels will make it the largest winery solar system in the US, generating half the electricity needs for each of our US wineries.”
“It’s all part of TWE’s broader goal to make wine sustainably.”
The investment in solar panels represents just one facet of TWE’s comprehensive approach to sustainability. As part of their broader commitment to reduce their environmental impact, the company is also exploring the integration of batteries and electric vehicle chargers for their fleet and employee and visitor vehicles.
This multifaceted strategy not only supports regional economies but also enhances energy efficiency across their global operations.
Beyond renewable energy, TWE is investing in the future of Australia’s wine industry with a $10 million commitment to research and development in no and low alcohol wine. Already underway is the construction of a state-of-the-art no and low alcohol production facility at the Barossa site.
This cutting-edge machine, utilizing proprietary processing technology, is expected to be fully operational in early 2024. The innovative 3-stage continuous wine de-alcoholization system will gently remove alcohol content, allowing the preservation of the wine’s delicate flavor compounds.
This process ensures that the final product retains the quality and characteristics of the original varietal, offering consumers a satisfying experience with reduced alcohol content.
TWE’s forward-thinking approach extends to meet the demands of consumers seeking more choices and flexibility in alcohol consumption. The successful launch of Wolf Blass Zero, Squealing Pig no/low alcohol, and Pepperjack mid-strength wines underscores the company’s commitment to catering to evolving consumer preferences.
With its unwavering dedication to sustainability, TWE is not only bottling world-class wines but also the brilliance of Australian sunshine.
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