The move is in line with the company’s aim to push its manufacturing partners to become more energy efficient while reducing the carbon footprint.
As part of the initiative, Apple’s major supplier Foxconn will build 400MW of solar, starting in the Henan Province, by 2018.
Foxconn has committed to generate as much clean energy as its Zhengzhou factory consumes in final production of iPhone, Apple said.
Foxconn Technology Group founder and CEO Terry Gou said: "We are excited to embark on this initiative with Apple. Our companies share a vision for driving sustainability and I hope that this renewable energy project will serve as a catalyst for continued efforts to promote a greener ecosystem in our industry and beyond.
"Sustainability is a core pillar in Foxconn’s strategy and we are committed to investing in green manufacturing."
On the other hand, Apple is planning to build over 200MW of solar projects in the northern, eastern and southern grid regions of China, in a bid to offset the energy used in its supply chain.
The solar energy generated at the projects will be enough to power over 265,000 Chinese homes annually.
Apple CEO Tim Cook said: "Climate change is one of the great challenges of our time, and the time for action is now.
"The transition to a new green economy requires innovation, ambition and purpose. We believe passionately in leaving the world better than we found it and hope that many other suppliers, partners and other companies join us in this important effort."
Apple’s clean energy initiatives are anticipated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 20 million metric tons by the end of this decade.
The company will also help some suppliers by providing energy efficiency audits and regulatory guidance to set up new renewable projects in the country.
Image: The solar energy generated at Apple’s projects will be enough to power over 265,000 Chinese homes annually. Photo: courtesy of njaj / FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
