Puget Sound Energy sets net zero carbon emissions goal for 2045
Puget Sound Energy (PSE) officially joined the legion of energy companies recognizing and working to combat climate change this week through a commitment to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2045 and help other sectors enable carbon reduction in Washington.
The roadmap to getting there includes reducing emissions from PSE’s electric and gas operations, as well as its electric supply, to net zero by 2030. Net zero carbon emissions for natural gas sales used in homes and businesses are also being sought in the end, though the hope is to reach a 30 percent emissions reduction by 2030.
“Climate change is an existential threat that cannot be ignored, and we are doing our part to move further and faster to save our planet,” PSE President and CEO Mary Kipp said. “Our customers have been asking for cleaner energy; and by setting this aspirational goal, we are putting our stake in the ground. We will work with our customers, as well as our lawmakers and regulators, to push a path forward, based on data and facts, which will drive significant and meaningful change.”
PSE is also reaching out to other industries to make an impact, though. This includes identifying programs and products that cost-effectively cut carbon throughout the state, be it through electric vehicle use or RNG projects, among others. Siting and permitting of renewable transmission lines and generation will be emphasized, and a link to other Western jurisdictions for a cap and trade program will be sought to bolster efficiency in carbon and energy markets.
“This effort will require accountability and partnership,” said Kipp. “The deep sense of urgency to address our climate crisis is felt on many levels. There are numerous areas where PSE will lead but equally as many that need outside support–from stakeholders and our customers to enablers like policy and regulatory changes.”
While PSE also intends to eliminate coal use, electrify most of its fleet by 2030, modify tariffs and incentives to ease natural gas load growth, and expand customer energy efficiency and demand response programs alongside increasing utility-scale renewables and others. Considering how much is on its plate, PSE will assemble an external advisory committee of community members, partners, technical experts, and others to assess the various issues involved and chart the best path forward.
