IKEA has announced that, as part of its goal to use only renewable energy to power its buildings, it will partner with the Chinese clean energy company Hanergy to install solar panels on IKEA buildings in China.

Once complete, the solar project is expected to provide 10% to 15% of the power requirements of IKEA’s buildings in China, and 100% of the power required by its distribution centres. This is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 6,000 tons per year.

This project is even extended to IKEA’s suppliers.

“IKEA has a long-term commitment to use 100 percent renewable energy to power our buildings and this is an important and significant step towards reaching that goal. Not only will we harness the sun to help power our stores and other buildings across China, but we will also extend the scope of the project over the coming year to our supply base across the country; enabling them to utilise an affordable and reliable supply of clean energy,” said Steve Howard, Chief Sustainability Officer, IKEA Group.

Worldwide, more than half of IKEA’s energy comes from renewable energy powered generators, primarily wind turbines and solar panels.

“Our partnership with IKEA is an exciting opportunity to promote the smart use of thin-film solar technology as a reliable, clean and alternative source of energy. In the current context of high electricity demand, such initiatives have the potential to relieve pressure on the national grid, support our clients’ business and preserve the environment,” said Li Hejun, Chairman of Hanergy.

IKEA is not only shifting to renewable energy, though. It is also reducing the energy usage of its stores, which is another integral part of reducing its environmental footprint.