Tech Giant Powers Up Green Energy in Latin America and Europe

Microsoft is stepping up its game in the clean energy sector. They just announced new solar power deals in Mexico, Brazil, and Spain. This isn't just about cutting carbon emissions. It's also about helping local communities grow. In Latin America, Microsoft teamed up with Powertrust. Together, they plan to build 270 MW of solar power over the next four years. These projects will create Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). Microsoft will buy these to balance out their energy use. Danielle Decatur, Microsoft's energy director, said this partnership will help build green energy infrastructure. It will also improve life for people in these areas. The focus is on places where clean energy is hard to come by. Jobs will be created, and workers will get training. Local NGOs will help make sure the projects are fair. Nick Fedorkiw, Powertrust's CEO, called this deal a great example of how big companies can fight climate change. He said it shows how corporate leaders can empower communities at the same time. Some people argue that RECs don't always mean new clean energy is being made. But Microsoft sees this as part of a bigger plan. They already have a 15-year wind power deal in Brazil. They're also investing billions in cloud and AI facilities there. In Europe, Microsoft made a long-term deal with Zelestra. They'll get 95. 7 MW of solar power from two projects in Spain. This energy will power Microsoft's data centers. It will also fund a Community Fund run by ECODES. This fund supports local projects, education, and sustainability programs. Microsoft has big goals. They want to match all their electricity use with zero-carbon power by 2025. By 2030, they aim to be carbon negative. They've already contracted 34 GW of renewable capacity worldwide. This puts them ahead of many other tech companies.