Group Activity 2.2 in Strategic Management
Group Activity 2.2 in Strategic Management
Group Activity 2.2 in Strategic Management
(Strategic Management)
Activity 2.2
2. Mini-Case. Read the mini-case of Walmart de México and answer the discussion
questions comprehensively.
Discussion Questions:
1. How can the company leverage its sterling credit rating to get renewable energy
projects off the ground?
Despite the fact that the proposed wind farm was located in a region with
substantial wind resources, the project would not have been able to get finance
without a credit worthy off-taker. The developers were able to secure financial
support, purchase and build the turbines, and begin generating electricity by 2010
thanks to Walmart de México's 15-year PPA (Power Purchase Agreement).
2. For the EVM wind farm, Walmart de México's equity investment was minimal
and just sufficient to meet the requirements for Mexico's self-supplied tariff.
Should the company take a larger equity position in furthering energy projects
rather than simply serving as an off taker?
Rather than simply acting as an off taker, the corporation should have a larger
equity stake in energy projects. Because the return on equity investments is the
increase in the value of the initial investment in the company. Because you don't
have to accept loans or utilize debt financing to obtain the necessary capital for a
company's growth, employing equity investment to finance your firm has fewer
risks.
3. What technologies should Walmart de México employ to achieve its renewable
energy goals?
I would suggest to them a technology like Photovoltaic and Biomass to achieve its
renewable energy goals. Photovoltaic systems require just routine inspections an
minor repairs, which are incredibly inexpensive when compared to traditional fuel
systems. Photovoltaic systems are also extremely dependable even in adverse
situations. Photovoltaic arrays ensure that important power supply run
continuously and without interruption. As a renewable energy source, biomass is
always and abundantly available. Because our society continually creates waste
such as rubbish, wood, and manure, the organic elements required to produce
biomass are unlimited.
4. Should the company hold a portfolio of projects or just concentrate on one
technology?
Because good portfolio management generates business value by aligning projects
with an organization's strategic goal, making the greatest use of limited resources,
and creating synergies between initiatives, the corporation must maintain a
portfolio of projects.
5. How could Walmart de México expand the program to other Central American
countries where it operates?
There are numerous ways for Walmart de México extend their business abroad,
each of which necessitates unique background knowledge, expertise, and
commitment. The first option of global expansion is to use an in-house strategy,
which means you create your own mobility structure based on your preferences,
needs, and constraints. This strategy requires you to identify and decide on the
particular path you wish to take. It's incredibly open-ended and necessitates a
great deal of research, planning, and dedication.
6. Is there a way to include suppliers into a renewable energy program?
There will be a way to engage the suppliers at some point because they, too,
require the capabilities of this project, which include long-term renewable energy
variability and lower electricity rates.
PROBLEM:
Walmart de Mexico faces a problem in achieving sustainability targets without
jeopardizing the interests of its corporate authorities and stakeholders.
SOLUTIONS:
More working capital should be allocated to operations, and sufficient funding
should be allocated to renewable energy initiatives.
Have a hydropower project but only use renewable energy as a byproduct.
Instead of plastic bags, use reusable bags or paper bags.
Encourage suppliers to contribute to renewable energy project funding