The New Energy Opportunities (NEO) Network, a group of corporations committed to buying and developing renewable energy, is expanding its reach into Europe.
Schneider Electric, which serves as the network moderator and consultant, announced the expansion recently, stating that European organizations can now connect to the NEO Network to address science-based targets and clean energy goals across their footprint.
The virtual community provides commercial and industrial (C&I) companies exclusive access to market intelligence, project and pricing information, and developers and technology providers, streamlining the often-complicated buying process. Companies such as BiC, Danone, Ferrero, GSK and Saint-Gobain recently joined the community, adding to the ranks that include founding members such as AEG, Equinix and VF Corporation.
“We have a long-term goal of using clean and renewable energy for all our operations,” said Sam Kapoor, Chief Global Operations Officer, Equinix, the world’s largest data center and colocation provider. “The NEO Network has delivered insight and connections in the Americas to further that vision. And with Europe accounting for more than 40 percent of our energy use, it will be a valuable resource to build on our progress in the region.”
In addition to regional support in Europe and North America, NEO Network members are able to get market research and reports on rapidly developing renewable energy and cleantech markets — India, Mexico, China and Australia, among others.
“Even though there’s been a dramatic uptick in corporate adoption of clean, renewable energy, the complexity of today’s market can hinder many organizations,” said John Hoekstra, Vice President of Sustainability and Cleantech Services, Schneider Electric. “Technology, partners, financing and location are all variables that provide an endless array of opportunities, but can slow progress. The growing NEO Network community confirms the need for simplicity and clarity.”
C&I companies have played an increasing role in the demand for renewable energy, adding more than 8,000 GW of wind and solar power to the global grid since 2010. In Europe, 60 corporations have joined the UK-based RE100 and committed to source 100 percent of electricity from renewable resources. A further 150 European companies have agreed to set science-based targets for greenhouse gas emissions reduction, many of which will rely on renewable energy and other clean technologies to meet their goals.