HNI Lowers Emissions 29%, Increases Use of RE

HNI Corporation, a manufacturer of workplace furnishings and residential building products, lowered its Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 29% since 2022.

May 1, 2025

Published by SED

GHG Emissions, Manufacturing, Offsite Renewable Project/PPA/VPPA/RECs, Onsite Solar

HNI Corporation, a manufacturer of workplace furnishings and residential building products, lowered its Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 29% since 2022.

The company achieved a 79% total reduction since 2018 in absolute combined Scope 1 and 2 GHG gas emissions and reduced Scope 3 GHG emissions per ton of goods sold by 16% since 2022, resulting in a 5% total increase since 2018.

As detailed in its biennial Corporate Responsibility Report, HNI sourced 100% renewable electricity for its global operations, meeting its RE100 and EPA Green Power Partner commitments. The company installed a 500-kW solar array on the roof of its seating operations, which is expected to offset approximately 10% of the plant’s electrical demand and thus reduce Scope 2 emissions. The array generates up to 960 MWh annually.

In addition to this project and purchasing unbundled renewable energy certificates, HNI engages with local energy providers on power purchase agreements and is evaluating additional on-site solar projects.

HNI announced plans for its largest solar installation to date at its biggest manufacturing facility in Muscatine, Iowa. This solar array will generate over 1,500 MWh annually, which is equivalent to approximately 7% of the facility’s annual electricity consumption. This will be the company’s first solar installation at a U.S. facility.

The company increased its energy intensity by 1% since 2022 — resulting in a 6% total increase since 2018 due to changes in production levels — but reduced absolute energy consumption by 19% since 2022, achieving a 28% total reduction since 2018.

“At HNI, our actions are grounded in principles that prioritize today’s needs while shaping a better tomorrow,” said Jeff Lorenger, CEO of HNI Corporation in a statement. “Our progress reflects a strong commitment to responsible innovation and continuous improvement. We are proud of what we have achieved and invite you to explore our latest Corporate Responsibility Report to learn more about the initiatives driving meaningful change as we strive to continuously do better.”