Southern California Gas launches initiative to achieve net zero emissions by 2045
Southern California Gas (SoCalGas) unveiled its plan to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2045.
This commitment calls for an elimination of SoCalGas’s own direct emissions and those generated by its customers through its energy infrastructure.
“Our mission is to build the cleanest, safest, and most innovative energy company in America,” Scott Drury, SoCalGas CEO, said. “We will lead the energy transition by providing clean fuels and innovative technologies essential to carbon neutrality for California. Through collaboration and partnership, California can develop clean energy solutions at scale and serve as a global beacon for energy innovation.”
SoCalGas, which serves nearly 22 million residents, plans to invest in initiatives to decarbonize, diversify, and digitalize the business in the next five years. By 2025, it plans to achieve net zero energy for 100 percent of SoCalGas’ newly constructed buildings and major renovations of buildings over 10,000 square feet. It also vows to replace 50 percent of its fleet with electric, hybrid, natural gas, and/or fuel cell electric vehicles. In addition, it will establish statewide hydrogen blending standards and complete five hydrogen pilot projects.
By 2030, the company plans to eliminate 100 percent of vented gas during planned transmission pipeline work and achieve net zero energy for 50 percent of all SoCalGas existing buildings. Further, the company has a goal of delivering 20 percent of renewable natural gas.
By 2035, SoCalGas will have 100 percent of its fleet in zero emissions vehicles and achieve net zero energy for 100 percent of SoCalGas buildings.
“SoCalGas’ bold climate pledge demonstrates their commitment to helping California reach its goal of carbon neutrality,” California Sen. Bob Archuleta said. “I’ve fought for investments in hydrogen and other clean fuel technologies because I know that gas infrastructure will be needed to provide reliable energy in a net zero carbon economy. I’m thrilled SoCalGas is leading the nation in these innovations and that they’re beginning here in the 32nd Senate District.”
Local officials widely praised the plan.
“To get to net zero in California, we need lawmakers and state agencies to engage the support and partnership of all stakeholders—universities, investors, communities, and businesses, including energy providers like SoCalGas. Because as California brings on more and more renewable electricity, we need to ensure we have all the tools in our toolbelt – solar, wind, hydrogen and renewable natural gas, and all other renewable clean sources–to work together to ensure grid reliability while still meeting our clean air and climate change goals,” California State Assemblymember Cristina Garcia said.
