Dollar Tree deploys solar panels as part of net zero target
Dollar Tree is deploying a community solar portfolio at select Dollar Tree and Family Dollar locations.
The discount retailer is teaming up with clean energy solutions provider DSD Renewables to launch seven solar projects at Dollar Tree and Family Dollar stores in New York. Dollar Tree hopes to meet operational energy demands while also supporting solar programs for various local communities and small businesses.
Earlier this year, Dollar Tree announced a commitment to set a science-based net zero carbon emissions target by June 30, 2024. To help achieve this goal, the company is assessing renewable energy procurement, including community solar.
DSD Renewables will build the seven-project, 41.75 megawatts (MW) community solar portfolio at Dollar Tree and Family Dollar stores in East Syracuse, Cortland, Remsen, Medina, Silver Creek and Brier Hill, N.Y.
The retailer estimates the portfolio will generate 55.77 GWh of clean energy annually — the equivalent of avoiding 24,127 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year. Dollar Tree will offtake 16.67 MW of the larger portfolio, offsetting 29% of energy needs across 184 Dollar Tree and Family Dollar stores in New York. Two of the projects are already under asset operation, and the remaining five under construction are expected to be operational in stages starting in fall 2023.
NRG Energy assisted in issuing a request for proposals (RFP) for the project. DSD Renewables is also working with retailers including Lowe’s and Home Depot on solar panel installations at stores.
“Community solar is a unique and emerging energy solution for many of our facilities. Serving as an anchor subscriber will power our facilities with renewable energy and help us toward our future net zero commitment,” said Jennifer Silberman, chief sustainability officer at Dollar Tree Inc. “Simultaneously, it allows us to deliver real benefits to the communities we serve, increasing access to clean, affordable energy for residents and local businesses.
“Serving as an anchor subscriber will power our facilities with renewable energy and help us toward our future net zero commitment,” said Silberman.
“We’re excited to have household names and recognized industry leaders like Dollar Tree and Family Dollar supporting our community solar portfolio,” says Katie Kavanaugh, Community Solar Manager at DSD. “Not only are we determined to help them reach their energy goals, but their participation as an anchor offtaker introduces the necessary backing to more readily deploy our projects, opening up access to communities that may not have had a chance to partake in these programs otherwise.”
Headquartered in Chesapeake, Va., Dollar Tree operated 16,476 stores across 48 U.S. states and five Canadian provinces as of July 29, 2023. Stores operate under the brands of Dollar Tree, Family Dollar and Dollar Tree Canada.