Duquesne Light report looks at the role of electrification in decarbonized future

Duquesne Light Company (DLC) released a whitepaper last week that examines the benefits of electrification and its role in decarbonizing the Pittsburgh region.

The paper — Electrification as a Strategy for Decarbonization — details how beneficial electrification on a low-carbon electrical grid can reduce the impacts on the climate, improve public health, and ensure inclusive economic and workforce development. It also seeks to motivate the Pittsburgh region’s transition to electrification, including transportation and buildings, by showing the immediate positive impacts of connecting to a low-carbon grid.

Further, it looks to raise awareness of the low-carbon electricity generation in the Pittsburgh region that feeds DLC’s service territory in Allegheny and Beaver counties and demonstrate DLC’s commitment to being a trusted partner in building clean energy future.

“As a society, we’re at an inflection point regarding the ways in which energy is produced and consumed, and the transition to lower carbon sources of energy is necessary in order to slow the increasingly harmful effects of climate change. As an electric utility, DLC plays a pivotal role in our region’s energy transition and realizes the positive impact that beneficial electrification has on the environment, public health, and the economy,” Kevin Walker, president and CEO of DLC, said.

The whitepaper was developed with input from numerous experts at DLC as well as external contractors experienced in the energy sector.

“We have an opportunity to use electrification as a way to limit energy consumption, lower consumer costs, and decrease greenhouse gas emissions while simultaneously promoting economic and workforce development. I hope this whitepaper will educate and inspire our customers, the public, and key decision makers across all sectors as we strive for a decarbonized, clean energy future that benefits everyone,” Walker added.

DLC will expand partnerships with external stakeholders to ensure an equitable and effective transition to a decarbonized future. It will also support customers on this path by increasing electric vehicle infrastructure and energy efficiency programs.

“Taking action today can help protect our planet for current and future generations; however, being successful requires support and collaboration from everyone,” Walker added. “Electrification is one more way we can achieve our vision of a clean energy future for all. We have the tools and resources to boldly harness opportunities today and going forward. While it’s clear we still have a lot of work to do, I am confident we’re on the right path and look forward to seeing the progress.”

DLC provides electricity to more than 600,000 customers in Allegheny and Beaver counties in Pennsylvania.