Dominion Energy broadens net zero commitments

Dominion Energy, one of the nation’s leading clean-energy companies, announced it was broadening its efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions Friday.

The company said it would build on plans to achieve Net Zero carbon and methane emissions from power generation and natural gas operations by 2050 by working to achieve Net Zero for emissions outside of the company’s direct operations, including emissions generated downstream and upstream of the company.

“These commitments are a natural next step, building upon our industry-leading programs to drive down carbon and methane emissions within our own operations. We are now formalizing our efforts to help customers and suppliers decarbonize as part of our work to build a clean and sustainable company. Setting goals helps drive the innovation and focus we need to succeed. We’re already making progress on these vital goals and will continue to do so in the months and years to come,” said Robert M. Blue, Dominion Energy’s chair, president and CEO. “As we do, we will never lose sight of our fundamental responsibility to customers — to provide safe, reliable, and affordable energy around the clock.”

The announced expansion will cover Scope 2 emissions – generated downstream by customers, and the material categories of Scope 3 – emissions generated upstream by suppliers.

The company will focus on progress by reducing emissions through programs focused on supplier engagement, customer empowerment, constructive public policy, and technology innovation. These steps include supporting federal methane regulation, developing and advancing procurement practices that encourage transparency in upstream suppliers’ emission and GHG reduction programs; preferencing offers for Responsibly Sourced Gas and/or suppliers committed to Net Zero; developing plans to increase access to RNG for Dominion Energy customers; and pursuing innovative use of clean-burning hydrogen.