Solar power helps beverage maker achieve green goals

Eyeing advanced use of more green power, China's leading beverage producer, Wahaha Group, recently initiated a series of maintenance operations for its solar power station in Wenzhou, Zhejiang province.

The photovoltaic, or PV, plant, with an installed capacity of 4,692 kilowatts, is expected to generate approximately 4.6 million kilowatt-hours of energy annually.

The adoption of solar power not only optimizes the company's energy consumption and significantly reduces its electricity costs but also contributes to environmental sustainability with noise-free and pollution-free energy production, said the company.

Additionally, the investment cycle, from construction to grid connection, is relatively short, offering a strong return on investment while supporting the dual carbon goals.

"The rooftop photovoltaic station has brought many benefits to our company. It not only protects the factory roof, extending its lifespan, but also lowers the internal temperature of the facility, reducing our monthly electricity costs by over 28,000 yuan ($3,932) on average," said a representative of Wahaha.

He further explained that the energy generated by the rooftop PV system provides a substantial boost of clean energy that enhances the company's operational efficiency. When the factory is not operating at full capacity, the electricity generated but not needed on-site can be fed back into the grid. Additionally, when the company actively participates in grid demand response by reducing its load to prioritize residential electricity supply, it can receive corresponding subsidies.

Looking ahead, Wenzhou will leverage its regional advantages to further green goals, which include the widespread adoption of distributed solar power projects and the development of customized PV system integration plans for enterprises, according to the State Grid Wenzhou Power Supply Co, local power operator.