Woolworths Group has confirmed that all its supermarkets, BIG W stores, distribution centres and support offices across Australia and New Zealand are now powered by renewable electricity. The milestone was reached at the end of 2025, achieving a goal first set in 2020 and moving the retailer ahead of the global RE100 target timeline.
Since December, every facility within the Group’s network has been operating solely on renewable electricity sources.
What does 100% renewable electricity mean for Woolworths?
The retailer now sources more than two-thirds of its electricity through strategic wind and solar partnerships across Australia and New Zealand.
This is supported by more than 320 on-site solar installations, generating enough electricity to power over 17,000 homes. In addition, Woolworths uses large-scale generation certificate arrangements to match its electricity consumption.
Importantly, the Group prioritised backing new renewable projects rather than relying on existing infrastructure, increasing grid capacity rather than drawing from current supply.
Operational impact across supermarket and distribution networks
The shift is projected to reduce operational emissions by more than 74%, bringing the company closer to its 80% reduction target by 2030.
Across 14 distribution centres, Woolworths hosts some of the largest rooftop solar installations in Australian retail. These systems reduce grid demand during peak hours and provide greater energy stability for cold-chain and logistics operations.
Energy efficiency upgrades continue across the network. Initiatives include refrigeration modernisation, LED lighting, store retrofits, improved equipment efficiency and optimised new distribution centre design.
Real-time monitoring through the Group’s Energy Management Centre supports consumption tracking and rapid intervention during unexpected spikes.
Why this matters for supermarket operations
For supermarket operators, energy remains a major fixed cost. Electricity powers refrigeration, lighting, warehouse automation and temperature-controlled logistics.
By securing long-term renewable contracts and expanding on-site generation, Woolworths strengthens cost predictability while reducing exposure to grid volatility.
In large-format supermarket and distribution environments, stable energy infrastructure directly supports food safety compliance and operational resilience.
The milestone also places pressure on competitors across Australia and New Zealand to accelerate their own decarbonisation strategies.
What happens next?
Woolworths Group will continue energy efficiency initiatives as it works toward its 2030 emissions reduction target.
Future investment is expected to focus on further infrastructure upgrades, expanded renewable partnerships and continued monitoring optimisation across its retail and distribution footprint.
The announcement reinforces sustainability as a structural component of supermarket strategy rather than a standalone corporate commitment.
