Fonterra is investing in renewable energy at its Edgecumbe site with the installation of a new electrode boiler.

General manager energy and climate Linda Mulvihill said the new boiler was among several investments Fonterra was making in electrification projects across the North Island, announced at the start of last year.

“Our Edgecumbe site is transitioning from the use of steam and electricity generated through a co-generation plant to the new electric boiler,” she said.

“This is expected to reduce the site’s annual emissions by an estimated 28,000 tonnes, equivalent to removing around 11,000 cars from New Zealand roads.

“It will also contribute a 1.5 percent reduction towards Fonterra’s overall 2030 Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions reduction target and reduce the Co-op’s overall natural gas reliance.

“The new boiler arrived at site at the end of last year and is expected to be operational by mid-2026.