France’s supermarket sector is taking the energy transition one step further. Groupement Les Mousquetaires, known for its iconic banners such as Intermarché, Netto and Bricomarché, has entered into a partnership with Kallista Energy, an independent producer of renewable energies. This collaboration has resulted in the signing of cPPAs (Corporate Power Purchase Agreements), which commit the Bonacieux Energies subsidiary to purchasing the electricity produced by three wind farms.
Modernizing Wind Farms for Increased Efficiency
These strategically located wind farms are currently being upgraded to increase their efficiency. They will replace existing wind turbines with more efficient models, capable of generating more electricity without increasing the number of turbines. This initiative is part of a significant modernization program scheduled for completion in 2024. With an estimated output of 100GWh per year, these wind farms will play a crucial role in the Group’s energy transition strategy.
Wind power, a strategic choice for renewable energy
This move into wind power represents a first for Les Mousquetaires, which until now had concentrated its efforts on photovoltaic energy. This strategic choice reflects the growing awareness of environmental issues among major companies. By securing its supply of renewable electricity, the Group also aims to reduce its dependence on traditional and volatile energy sources.
Kallista Energy: A Key Partner in Wind Renewal
Frédéric Roche, President of Kallista Energy, underlines the importance of this partnership. In his view, the commitment of leading companies like Les Mousquetaires to wind power is a strong indicator of the competitiveness of this energy source, and underlines the need to accelerate its development. This 20-year partnership will enable Kallista Energy to finance the renewal of its wind farms, thus contributing to a faster, more efficient energy transition.
Towards Electric Mobility Supported by Wind Power
For his part, Bruno Breyne, Intermarché manager in charge of the Group’s Energy Department, highlights the strategy behind this choice. By diversifying its electricity supplies, the Groupement seeks not only to reduce its energy costs, but also to limit the exposure of its outlets to the volatility of energy market prices. Kallista Energy was chosen because of its roots in France and its ability to participate in the renewal of existing wind farms.
Les Mousquetaires: Environmental Commitment and Economic Performance
Kallista Energy, founded in 2005, is a key player in the renewable energy sector. In addition, it currently operates 38 wind and solar farms in France, the Netherlands and Germany, with a total capacity of 438MW. The company also stands out for its initiative to develop a network of ultra-high-power recharging stations for electric vehicles, mostly connected to wind turbines, underlining its commitment to electric mobility.
Groupement Les Mousquetaires, for its part, continues to strengthen its position as a major player in mass retailing, while committing itself to sustainability. Created in 1969, it brings together over 3,000 independent entrepreneurs and represents a substantial volume of business.
The partnership between Groupement Les Mousquetaires and Kallista Energy marks a significant turning point in the retail sector, highlighting the importance of the transition to renewable energies.
