The challenge

Visa needed an expert partner to help transition its largest data center to 100% renewable electricity. They were looking for a combination of enrollment in renewable programs and the purchase of renewable energy certificates (RECs), in accordance with the guidelines of the global RE100 initiative.

The solutions

Shell Energy worked with Visa to develop a bespoke, multi-year energy agreement to power their largest data center with 100% renewable energy. With this agreement in place, they were able to reduce the carbon impact of their global operations, while proudly supporting renewable energy generation in Virginia.

The agreement supports renewable electricity generation coming online to the grid from new solar projects. As part of this, Shell Energy will procure renewable electricity and the renewable credits, which Visa expects to begin using in February 2023.

The value

Visa’s agreement supports the expansion of new solar generation within the commonwealth’s grid. It also deepens the company’s commitment and investment in Virginia by supporting the Virginia Clean Economy Act, which is expected to create nearly 30,000 new solar jobs in the commonwealth by 2030.