Southern Company to supply federal facilities in three states with carbon pollution-free electricity
Under a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the General Services Administration (GSA) and Southern Company, the latter will develop carbon pollution-free electricity (CFE) options to power federal facilities throughout its service territories.
This will span three southern states, as part of the Biden administration’s Federal Sustainability Plan. That plan called for 100 percent CFE for federal government operations by 2030, electric vehicle goals and net-zero emissions buildings.
“This is our fourth MOU with a utility company and it’s another example of how GSA is leading by example in tackling climate change, using our buying power and real estate footprint to move markets, create demand, drive efficiency, and catalyze efficiency and clean energy innovation,” GSA Administrator Robin Carnahan said. “Through smart partnerships with energy service providers, we can help advance sustainability, create jobs, save taxpayer dollars, and ensure a healthier planet for our kids.”
Southern Company intends to cut emissions 50 percent by 2030, compared to 2007 levels. Its net zero greenhouse gas emissions target is set for 2050. This is important to the government in particular, since the U.S. Army is the largest federal customer served by Southern. AS such, GSA will continue to collaborate with the company to explore advancements of potential CFE solutions such as solar, battery storage, nuclear power, on-site generation and clean hydrogen.
“Southern Company recognizes the importance of developing and supplying carbon-free electricity as we continue our efforts toward our goal of reaching net zero by 2050,” Chris Womack, CEO and president of Southern Company, said. “Through industry-leading innovation and a commitment to a net zero future, we are delivering sustainable and resilient energy solutions that help drive growth and prosperity. This partnership will serve as another important step toward these goals.”
Going forwards, GSA and Southern Company will collaborate on a roadmap detailing the path to buying more CFE for federal agencies in the region and pursuing reliability and resiliency goals.
