Con Edison releases sustainability report

In its new Sustainability Report, New York-based Con Edison advocated for utility ownership of renewable projects in the state.

This would help the state reach its clean energy goal of 100 percent renewable energy by 2040.

Con Edison is the second-largest producer of solar energy in the country, with projects in 19 states. Also, its energy efficiency programs have helped over a million customers save money while preventing 7 million metric tons of carbon emissions. Con Edison plans to invest more than $1.5 billion in its energy efficiency programs by 2025.

In addition, Con Edison is taking steps to encourage the use of more electric vehicles (EVs), since an estimated 30 percent of the city’s carbon production comes from cars and trucks. Specifically, the company will deliver 120 charging stations to 45 locations across the five boroughs of New York City. The company is transitioning its fleet of light-duty vehicles to EVs and exploring alternative technologies to reduce fossil fuel use for medium- and heavy-duty trucks.

Finally, Con Edison is pursuing options to reduce carbon emissions from natural gas infrastructure.

“When it comes to climate action, Con Edison envisions a clean future for the world’s most complex energy grid,” John McAvoy, Con Edison’s chairman and CEO, said. “Powering the lives of 10 million people, we are committed to building tomorrow’s grid in a manner that supports renewable energy sources like solar and offshore wind while empowering customers to make smarter energy choices.”

Further, Con Edison’s recent Climate Change Vulnerability Study stresses the importance of preparing its infrastructure for major weather events.