“The integral importance of ESG within Food Union resulted in our investments in renewable energy resources in two of our leading entities within the group: Premia and Isbjørn Is. As one of the leading ice-cream and dairy producers in the Baltic region with a growing global presence, we constantly monitor and review pathways to limit our environmental impact and seek out alternative renewable energy sources to balance our energy needs as we continue to grow,” said Normunds Staņēvičs, CEO of Food Union, Europe.
Premia, a Food Union company and Estonia’s oldest and largest ice cream producer, has transitioned to 100% renewable energy resources, like solar, to power its operations. Premia's journey toward greener production included the installation of automated LED lights and the introduction of Fusebox virtual power plant solution to reduces electricity consumption.
“Premia is the largest ice cream producer in Estonia, and we understand that we must do everything we can to minimize the environmental impact of our production and operations,” said Aivar Aus, chairman of the management board of Premia.
Premia produces around 5,000 tons of ice cream annually and operates nine production lines. The company said utilizing 100% renewable energy coupled with its power saving solutions will reduce its factory and freezer warehouse CO2 emissions by more than 95% annually or 2,800 tons.
Isbjørn Is, a Food Union company in Norway, has also committed to using renewable energy in its operations. In 2019 Isbjørn Is invested in 360 solar panels, constructed on its warehouse facility roof. This generates 68,904 kWh annually — the equivalent to offsetting approximately 48.2 tons of CO2 emissions.
“At Isbjørn Is, we aim to grow our business locally while reducing the environmental impact of our operations. Utilizing renewable energy sources is a key ingredient in reducing our carbon footprint now and as we expand in the future,” said Morten Kolseth, CEO of Isbjørn Is.