Total, Microsoft to Work Together on Net Zero Targets

France's Total and US software group Microsoft said on March 11 they had formed a partnership to cooperate in reaching net zero emissions targets.

Total will sell green electricity to Microsoft, which will provide the French major with more of its cloud software and technology platforms. Total will help Microsoft secure renewable energy through power purchase agreements. The first of these agreements has been reached for 47 MW of generation capacity covering Microsoft's operations in Spain, where Total is developing over 5 GW of solar power capacity.

Microsoft has committed to use 100% renewable energy by 2025, while Total wants to expand its renewable generation capacity to 35 GW within the next five years and almost 100 GW by 2030.

Total will also help Microsoft develop a plan for diesel-free operations, initially using its technologies for onsite backup energy assets, including large batteries.

"The rapid development of Total and Microsoft in their areas of expertise brings many opportunities of cooperation for both companies, who are at the forefront of the fight against climate change," Total CEO Patrick Pouyanne said. “We are committed to bringing our expertise by selling green electricity to support Microsoft in achieving its sustainability goals, and we’re pleased to rely on Microsoft’s cloud and AI solutions to accelerate our digital transformation. This is fundamental to drive progress towards a world with net-zero emissions."

"We have an enormous opportunity to use advances in digital technology to reduce greenhouse emissions," Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella added. "Our strategic partnership with Total will apply the comprehensive power of Microsoft cloud platforms to accelerate Total’s transition to new energies and to meet sustainability goals."