Apple has announced the launch of its second China Clean Energy Fund, committing up to $99.3 million (RMB 720 million) to support the growth of renewable energy projects across the country. The fund, managed by Schroders, builds on the success of its 2018 predecessor, which added over 1 gigawatt of renewable energy capacity across 14 Chinese provinces.
The new initiative aims to contribute 550,000 megawatt-hours of wind and solar energy to China’s power grid annually, with further contributions expected as additional investors join. Apple’s chief operating officer, Jeff Williams, emphasized the company’s ongoing partnership with Chinese suppliers, stating, “With the launch of the second China Clean Energy Fund, we’re proud to deepen our collaboration with suppliers across China to drive innovation, opportunity, and progress for our shared planet.”
Building on Past Successes
The first fund supported key renewable projects like the Concord Jing Tang and Shen Zhang Tang wind farms in Hunan Province, which collectively generated 134 megawatts of clean energy. Lisa Jackson, Apple’s Vice President of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives, praised these efforts, saying, “We are proud that suppliers participating in the fund share our commitment to supporting innovative energy solutions and fighting climate change.”
Aiming for 100% Renewable Supply Chain
The second fund continues Apple’s broader goal of achieving 100% renewable energy across its global supply chain by 2030. Currently, about two-thirds of Apple’s production in China runs on renewable energy, with over 100 suppliers actively working towards this goal.
Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, highlighted the progress on Weibo, stating, “Two-thirds of our supply chain here is already running on renewable energy, and this will help further our goal of running on 100% renewable energy by 2030.”
Commitment to Carbon Neutrality
Apple’s clean energy initiatives are part of its larger environmental strategy, which aims for carbon neutrality across its entire product lifecycle by 2030. The company has already reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by over 55% since 2015. Tim Cook also reiterated Apple’s commitment to fostering sustainable business practices, stating, “The business community has a big role to play in the development of China-U.S. relations.”
By investing in clean energy, Apple not only advances its sustainability goals but also strengthens cooperation between the U.S. and China, reinforcing its role in global environmental leadership.
Sources: Apple, Schroders
