SEPA introduces framework for identifying ways to reduce carbon emissions

The Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) has introduced a new framework for identifying actions that have the greatest carbon-reduction impacts.

SEPA’s new paper — Tiers of Electricity Decarbonization — outlines a five-step process for developing or reviewing a carbon-reduction plan. Entities can use the framework to develop their initial action plans and then conduct further research to find their own pathway through the tiers of decarbonization.

“While all carbon-reduction actions help to reduce the impacts of climate change, entities of all types are increasingly asking which actions are most effective,” Janet Gail Besser, vice president, regulatory and business innovation at the Smart Electric Power Alliance, said. “By identifying ‘tiers of decarbonization,’ this paper helps accelerate progress towards a carbon-free energy future. Now is the time to act!”

SEPA developed this framework by gathering and distilling feedback from various entities that are reducing carbon emissions, including utilities, companies, local governments, and electricity suppliers. These entities included Google, Microsoft, Xcel Energy, Austin Energy, ConEd, Consumers Energy, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, National Grid, City of Boston, City of Des Moines, Harvard Office for Sustainability, Iron Mountain Data Centers, and Peninsula Clean Energy.

“Xcel Energy is proud to drive towards being a net-zero energy provider, and key to that commitment is continuing to offer voluntary options for customers to manage their own clean energy transition,” Alice Jackson, president of Xcel Energy – Colorado, said. “As board chair of SEPA, I’m delighted that this report highlights a variety of ideas and options for customers to consider on this journey.”

Google has designed its own 24/7 carbon-free energy strategy to maximize its impact on decarbonization.

“We are pleased to support SEPA in developing this practical framework for evaluating the effects of carbon reduction actions, which provides a useful new tool for energy users and providers to increase the impact of their carbon-reduction strategies,” Caroline Golin, global head of energy market development and policy at Google, said.