Lightsource BP has confirmed that it has clinched a deal with Budweiser brewer AB InBev to develop and operate PPA-backed, subsidy-free solar farms. And with the agreement totalling 100MW in generating capacity, the deal is understood to be the largest unsubsidised solar deal in UK history. Earlier this month Solar Power Portal exclusively revealed that Lightsource BP had amassed a 300MW pipeline of PPA-backed solar in the UK, taking the developer back to the levels of activity it last experienced under the Renewables Obligation subsidy scheme. Under the deal with AB InBev, Lightsource BP is to develop 100MW under 15-year power purchase agreements. The capacity is to be connected by the end of 2020, powering the brewer’s two main breweries in Magor, South Wales and Samlesbury, Lancashire. In addition, all Budweiser brewed and sold in the UK will bear a new symbol – already in place in the US – which encourages consumer to choose a beer that is brewed using 100% renewable electricity. Jason Warner, zone president for Europe at AB InBev, said the brewer was committed to delivering its products sustainably. “This deal is about driving positive change in what people buy in their weekly shop, order in the pub or drink with friends. We want to build a movement towards celebrating and growing renewable electricity, and are asking our consumers, customers, colleagues, business partners and fellow companies to join us – we are making our 100% renewable electricity symbol available for any brands who share these values,” he said. Meanwhile Nick Boyle, chief executive at Lightsource BP, added: “We have reached a pivotal point in the UK energy sector where unsubsidised solar is going to truly make its mark as the cheapest form of energy generation, even compared to wind. We are proud to be at the forefront of this transition with AB InBev, demonstrating that solar makes an ideal partner for corporate power.”
Lightsource BP has agreed an unsubsidised solar deal with Budweiser brewer AB InBev, understood to be the largest deal of its kind in the UK. The deal, which is expected to generate £100m for the UK economy, will see Anheuser-Busch install a rooftop array on their brewery site at St George