In Short : Audi México is prepared to construct a 5.2MW solar plant, signaling its commitment to renewable energy initiatives. Considering additional projects, the company showcases a dedication to clean energy adoption in its operations. By investing in solar power, Audi México reduces its environmental impact, enhances energy efficiency, and contributes to a sustainable future. This move aligns with the automotive industry’s push for eco-friendly practices, marking a positive step toward a greener manufacturing sector.
In Detail : The Mexican subsidiary of German automaker Audi has everything ready to begin construction this year of a 5.2MW solar park that will help power 10% of its manufacturing plant in Puebla state.
This could be the beginning of a series of new projects, Audi México’s real estate and environment director, Héctor Andrade, told BNamericas.
“Even though we already produce with green energy, we are exploring other projects…looking for alternatives that could help us improve our carbon footprint,” he said, highlighting that the subsidiary is seeking to reach its net-zero goal by 2025.
In June, the automaker became one of few companies receiving a generation permit from energy regulator CRE for its project, following approval from environmental ministry Semarnat in March.
“We have managed to obtain all the permits and we can practically start construction. As for the schedule, we are thinking that by the end of 2024, it should be up and running,” Andrade said.
“The project was born with a provider specializing in this type of services. They oversee the project and the design, but the operation will remain in our hands,” he added.
According to the company, its plant in San José Chiapa municipality already operates 100% with clean energy that it buys from service providers, a practice that has helped it reduce emissions by 80%. With the new solar park, Audi is seeking to comply with an internal goal of 10% self-generation.
On a global scale, Audi aims to become a net-zero company by no later than 2050 and offer more than 20 fully electric, battery-driven cars by 2025.
Although there are no confirmed plans to begin producing a new electric model, Andrade said the Puebla factory is more than ready for this whenever the parent makes the decision.
Known as Audi’s first plant in North America, it has been producing the Audi Q5 model since operations began in 2016, with an estimated annual production of 150,000.