RE100 report calls for governments to remove barriers for companies achieving clean power ambitions

The latest findings from RE100’s annual disclosure report 2021 identifies key changes that need to be made to progress to net zero and minimize the effects of climate change.

Limited, or no availability of renewable electricity (reported by 40 members in 66 markets), lack of procurement opportunities (reported by 37 members in 111 markets), and prohibitive cost (reported by 27 members in 41 markets) were the top three challenges members faced procuring renewable electricity.

RE100 states businesses and governments must work in tandem with one another to ensure that barriers cited in the report are reduced.

RE100 members now consist of 349 companies, which consume more electricity combined than the entire UK annually. These companies now source nearly 45% of their electricity needs through renewable electricity.

61 members now report sourcing 100% of their electricity renewably and 29 members have had their 100% claims verified by RE100.

Procurement obstacles are most prevalent in Asia, which accounts for almost two thirds of new RE100 membership.

Despite these challenges, the latest report finds that RE100’s membership has seen its biggest yearly growth in Asia-Pacific, with 62% of new membership from this region.

RE100 membership in Asia-Pacific has grown from 10 to 102 members in just 5 years, demonstrating the rising demand for renewable electricity adoption in the region.

RE100 is a joint initiative between CDP and Climate Group bringing together hundreds of large businesses with the ambition of reaching 100% renewable electricity.

Andrew Glumac, Senior Manager, Renewable Energy at CDP says: “The goal of RE100 is to accelerate the transition to renewable electricity and it is fantastic to see a continued increase in members who share this vision.”

“We urge more companies to commit to 100% renewable electricity and to source in impactful ways that shift the grid mix.”

“Our growing membership, especially our increased presence in Asia, creates a stronger voice for RE100 to influence policy and ease the path for organizations transitioning to renewable electricity.

Sam Kimmins, Head of RE100, Climate Group, says: “The findings from the report demonstrate a clear signal to governments that corporates are investing at scale in renewable electricity, not just in Europe and North America but in the Asia-Pacific region as well.”

“While there is more that needs to be done, and faster, the year-on-year improvements shown by our members' data are encouraging confirmation that corporate demand for renewables is gaining pace.”