ALDI’s transition to renewable energy

As the 72nd biggest user of electricity* in Australia we understand that it is our responsibility to reduce our impact on the environment. ALDI is committed to finding sustainable alternatives across all of our operations, power included.

ALDI is powered by 100% renewable electricity

In August 2020, ALDI became the first Australian supermarket to commit to 100% renewable electricity by the end of 2021. The implementation of ALDI’s 100% renewable electricity goal enables us to meet our science based emissions reduction target. In June 2021, we achieved this goal – six months ahead of schedule. All of our stores, offices and warehouses are now powered by renewable electricity. The transition to clean power results in an 85% reduction in ALDI’s carbon emissions.

In 2022, ALDI aligned with the Federal Government’s Corporate Emissions Reduction Transparency (CERT) framework to report our 100% renewable electricity commitment in a clear and consistent way**.

So, how did we achieve this milestone?

We used a three-pronged approach:

three solar panels

1. On-site generation – via our extensive network of solar panels across ALDI stores and distribution centres. Across our network, we have solar panels on more than 270 stores stores and six distribution centres with solar – that’s over 102,000 panels! This provides 40,800 MWh of electricity each year through on site generation. 

three wind turbines

2. Off-site generation – through Power Purchase Agreements with two wind farms in Western Victoria and the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales.

energy certificate

3. Third party acquisition and voluntary surrender of market renewable energy certificates.

Small changes make a big difference

By achieving our 100% renewable electricity commitment, each year ALDI will prevent over 244,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions from entering the atmosphere***. To get a better picture of this achievement, 244,000 tonnes of carbon emissions is the equivalent of::

Within our transition to green energy, we have implemented efficiency measures such as LED lights, reducing our lighting energy consumption by more than 50%. We have also trialled natural refrigerant technology across some ALDI stores.

Six ways you can join ALDI in reducing carbon emissions

There are choices we can make in our everyday lives to reduce our carbon footprint. Here are a few examples:

1. Avoid driving

Where possible, opt for walking or taking public transport to get yourself from A to B. With over 570 ALDI locations across Australia, you should be able to stroll into your nearest store and leave the car at home.

2. Include plant-based alternatives in your diet

Cattle and dairy farming generates high levels of greenhouse gasses at every stage of the production process. Incorporating plant-based meals into your diet is not only good for you, but the environment! Why not swap out the beef mince for veggie mince once a week?

3. Bring reusable bags when shopping

Avoid single-use plastic by bringing your own reusable bags to the shops. Opting for products with less packaging will also prevent unnecessary waste.

4. Only buy what you need

Food waste accounts for approximately 3% of Australia’s annual greenhouse gas emissions. Meal prepping and writing a shopping list are two sure-fire ways to ensure you do not buy more than you need.

5. Put second-hand first

The fashion industry is responsible for 5% of the world’s greenhouse emissions. Instead of browsing fast fashion websites, look through the racks of second-hand stores for your next killer outfit. Toys, furniture, appliances and more can all be sourced with a little bit of digging at your nearest op-shop.

6. Purchasing renewable electricity

Anyone can purchase renewable electricity from their electricity provider by selecting that option from their retailer. Greenpower is the option that consumers can choose.

You can also select carbon neutral options from many providers (though renewable is better).

Frequently Asked Questions


Renewable energy is produced using resources that are naturally replenishing and never run out. They are constantly replaced and can never be depleted.


There are seven types of renewable energy. Some widely-used examples include solar, wind, hydroelectric and geothermal energy.


When the sun is shining, solar panels convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. The electrical energy is then converted into alternating current (AC) electricity by a solar inverter. The converted electricity then powers your home.


Wind farms use wind turbines that convert the kinetic energy of the wind into electrical energy. The blades of the turbine catch the wind’s currents.


ALDI stores remain connected to grid electricity, but benefit from on-site solar and renewable energy certificates sourced from our partner wind farms.


ALDI Australia as part of the ALDI South group, has a target of 26% reduction of carbon emissions by 2025 from a 2016 baseline. ALDI’s emissions reduction target is endorsed by the Science Based Target Initiative.


There are many ways in which you can power your home with renewable electricity. You could transition to solar power, solar heating, invest in an air source heat pump or even wind energy. You can purchase renewable electricity from your electricity provider. Learn more about your options here.


Carbon neutrality is the result of no net release of carbon dioxide being entered into the atmosphere. This can be achieved by eliminating emissions from society.


*Source: 2020/21 NGERS reporting (ALDI as the 72nd biggest user of electricity in Australia).

**Our 100% renewable electricity commitment under CERT is reported for entities that are under our operational control for the FY2021-22 period. ALDI will continue to maintain our 100% renewable electricity commitment using the CERT framework in future years.     

***Source: National Transport Commission (based on average emissions from a car: 169.8g/km, annual km: 20,000 = annual emissions from a car: 169.8*20000/1000000 = 3.4t).