OKLAHOMA CITY (July 27, 2021) – Lopez-Dorada Foods has entered into a long-term virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) for solar power to offset its greenhouse gas emissions. This agreement aligns with longtime Lopez-Dorada Foods supply partner McDonald’s Corporation’s emissions reduction goal. As a leading supplier of protein products to McDonald’s, Lopez-Dorada’s affiliate, Dorada Foods, plans to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions 25 percent by 2030, the equivalent of eliminating emissions from 2,400 vehicles annually.
In 2018, McDonald’s announced its intent to partner with suppliers to reduce emissions intensity (per metric ton of food and packaging) across its global supply chain by 31 percent by 2030, becoming the first global restaurant company to set a science-based target to significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
“Lopez-Dorada Foods is passionate about providing the highest quality protein products while remaining deeply committed to preserving the environment through sustainable business practices,” said Ed Sanchez, CEO of Lopez-Dorada Foods. “McDonald’s has been a valued and trusted partner of ours for over 40 years. We are proud to work with McDonald’s on a project of this scale with a collective goal to decrease our carbon footprint and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This effort will create a healthier environment for communities around the world.”
“As a global company, McDonald’s has a responsibility to address the impact of climate change,” said Emma Gillespie Cox, Global Renewable Energy Lead of McDonald’s. “By working with our supply partners, including Dorada Foods, to reduce our carbon footprint, we are on a journey together to help lead the way toward better and more sustainable future for the communities we serve around the world.”
Lopez-Dorada signed the virtual power purchase agreement for 12 megawatts of capacity from a new solar farm in North Carolina expected to begin operation at the end of 2022. Once completed, the project will cover approximately 1,200 acres, the equivalent of 900 football fields. Lopez-Dorada will purchase renewable energy from the solar project to reduce GHG emissions from its overall operations. Lopez-Dorada’s agreement achieves their goal of avoiding approximately 10,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year.
Lopez-Dorada selected the solar project following a collaborative procurement process with McDonald’s, led by energy advisor CustomerFirst Renewables.
“We commend Lopez-Dorada Foods and McDonald’s for taking this important step in their transition to renewable energy. Both companies are passionate and committed to driving positive environmental impact through actionable energy strategies and solutions. We are pleased to have played a role in supporting their sustainability journey,” said Kevin Rackstraw, Senior Vice President, Client Solutions of CustomerFirst Renewables.
About Lopez-Dorada Foods
As one of the nation’s leading protein-processing companies, Lopez-Dorada Foods supplies beef, pork and poultry products to some of the largest global restaurant chains and retailers. Recognized as a top company in the protein industry, Lopez-Dorada Foods prioritizes food safety and quality for all of their valued customers. Proudly Hispanic-owned with a rich history of excellence, Lopez-Dorada is committed to safe, quality products and doing things right the first time. Lopez-Dorada champions a diverse team and emphasizes trust, workplace safety, and community outreach.
MEDIA CONTACT: Tristan Shutt – 405.596.7181 / [email protected]