Microsoft collaborates with Qcells to rein in carbon emissions, power clean energy economy By CIOTechOutlook Team

Microsoft collaborates with Qcells to rein in carbon emissions, power clean energy economy

CIOTechOutlook Team | Friday, 27 January 2023, 06:16 IST

Microsoft, a major player in technology, recently announced a partnership with Qcells, a leader in the solar industry, to reduce carbon emissions and drive the clean energy economy.

The "strategic alliance" aims to enable a strong supply chain for new renewable electricity capacity projected to require at least 2.5 gigawatts of solar panels and related services, which is equivalent to powering over 400,000 homes, Microsoft said in a blogpost.

Qcells, a subsidiary of Seoul-based Hanwha Solutions, will collaborate with the tech giant to develop solar projects and will additionally offer panels and engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services to certain solar projects that Microsoft has signed power purchase agreements for (PPAs).

"Building a resilient solar energy supply chain is essential to advancing a global green energy economy. Microsoft's partnership with Qcells will help make this vision a reality by bringing innovation and investment to rural Georgia," said Brad Smith, vice chair and president, Microsoft.

The software giant has committed to acquiring renewable energy in order to meet its goal of supplying all of its electrical needs with renewable energy by 2025.

Microsoft is supporting Qcells' solar products, including those produced domestically, in an effort to increase the amount of renewable energy on the grid.

"We're striving to build and deliver turnkey clean energy solutions, including those made in America, and this partnership with Microsoft will help accomplish this vision," said Justin Lee, CEO, Qcells.

"Similarly, Qcells is proud to play a role with Microsoft to bring more renewable energy online in the years to come. This first step is only the beginning of a great partnership that not only supports our two companies but helps deliver a clean energy future for customers and communities," Lee added.

The only business in the United States with a complete solar supply chain and a one-stop shop for clean energy solutions is Qcells.

"The new collaboration is rooted in the two companies' collective commitments to diversify the global energy supply chain, proactively lead the development of more reliable energy supply chains in the U.S. and abroad, and reduce carbon emissions," Microsoft said.