The J. M. Smucker Co., Orrville, Ohio, entered into a long-term power purchase agreement with Lincoln Clean Energy (LCE), Chicago, for 60 megawatts (MW) of the utility-scale 230 MW Plum Creek Wind Project in Wayne County, Neb. Beginning in 2020, the wind energy produced from the Plum Creek project will address approximately 50% of Smucker's total electricity use.

"This agreement is an important step forward in our organization-wide effort to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions intensity," says Julia Sabin, vice president of government relations and corporate sustainability. "In 2017, electricity accounted for more than half our greenhouse gas emissions. This agreement will not only reduce our carbon footprint, but will also allow us to make a lasting contribution to our nation's renewable energy capacity."

LCE developed and financed more than 2 gigawatts of wind power over the last four years.

"In addition to creating high-paying local jobs, the Plum Creek Wind Project will result in over $3 million in local community benefits annually in the Wayne County area," says Declan Flanagan, founder and CEO of Lincoln Clean Energy. "We are excited to begin a successful relationship with The J. M. Smucker Co."