MGP Makes Commitment To Renewable Energy Initiative

100 percent of their electricity needs will now come from renewable wind power.

(Atchison, Kan.) - MGP (Nasdaq:MGPI), a leading U.S. supplier of premium distilled spirits and specialty wheat proteins and starches, has embarked on a major renewable energy initiative, committing to sourcing 100% of their electricity needs from renewable wind power.

Through a three-year agreement that took effect April 1, the company has made a commitment to renewable energy through Westar Wind, a Green-e certified program offered by Westar Energy. As a result, total electric usage at MGP’s facilities in Atchison, Kan., and Lawrenceburg, Ind., will be offset by green energy provided by Westar’s wind resources in Kansas.

“We are proud and excited to enter into this agreement which represents a significant step in our efforts to realize both the direct and overarching benefits of renewable energy technologies,” MGP President and CEO Gus Griffin said. “Among these is our ability to take on a more prominent and proactive role in further supporting environmental sustainability through greater use of clean energy. This initiative is consistent with the long-term view we take for our business, and reflects our enduring commitment to our communities and social responsibility.”

Under the agreement, which can be renewed at the end of three years, MGP will purchase renewable energy credits from Westar.  Wind energy equal in value to the credits will then be sourced from wind farms in Kansas and added to the overall energy grid system. This arrangement makes MGP the largest Westar customer to commit to 100 percent renewable electric energy.

“Westar applauds MGP for its commitment to the environment and social responsibility,” Jeff Beasley, vice president, customer care, said. “It’s great to provide Kansas’ wind energy to help our customers reach their sustainability goals, even reaching beyond Kansas.”

As a Green-e certified program, Westar Wind is committed to delivering reliable, affordable, safe and clean energy to consumers. Green‑e Energy is the nation’s leading certification program for renewable energy. For nearly two decades, Green‑e Energy has provided oversight for voluntary renewable energy transactions in North America.