Duke Energy, one of the largest electricity providers in the U.S., has set some ambitious carbon emissions reduction goals. Its aim is to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Along the way, it hopes to reduce carbon by 50% by 2030. The company, which employs 30,000 people and has an electric generating capacity of 54,000 megawatts, has already reduced carbon emissions by 31% since 2005.

The path to zero emissions will require a diversity of power resources including nuclear, natural gas, and renewables as well as the use of battery storage, energy efficiency, and the electrification of transportation. It will also require research to discover new ways to achieve climate objectives. In a video explaining these goals, Duke Energy President and CEO Lynn Good states, “Taking care of the environment is a priority at Duke Energy and we will continue our work to deliver a cleaner energy future for our customers and our communities.”

Why These Goals?

Following the publication of a 2017 climate report, Duke Energy set its goal for 2030 as reducing emissions by 40%. The company has now updated this goal to reducing emissions by at least 50% from 2005 levels because it wants to lead by example. “Our customers want and deserve a cleaner energy future, requiring bold steps, smart investments and collaboration today to ensure a brighter future,” states Good. Having another goal for 2050 creates a vision to “help guide the choices and investments we make over the next three decades and beyond,” according to a company FAQ.

Duke’s current goals fit in well with its overall commitment to responsible environmental stewardship. According to its website, the company is continuously developing energy efficiency programs, working to lower greenhouse gas emissions, developing innovative renewable energy projects, and focusing on environmental education and community engagement.

The Steps to Get There

The FAQ also notes the steps Duke will take to accomplish its goals, as summarized below:

Collaborate with customers, communities, and regulators in each state to establish unique steps and timelines.

Hasten the transition to clean energy solutions, including solar and wind.

Deploy low-cost natural gas to speed the transition from coal. This strategy includes plans to add carbon-capture technology to natural gas plants.

Expand energy storage, energy efficiency, and electric vehicle infrastructure.

Continue to operate carbon-free resources such as nuclear and renewables.

Modernize the electric grid to make it smarter and more resilient against extreme weather and cyber or physical attacks.

Advocate for public policy that advances technology and innovation.

Energy Professionals Take Notice

In a recent press release, Duke shares the response to its goals by others in the industry. “As one of the nation’s largest utilities, [Duke’s] commitment will have a meaningful impact on efforts to achieve a carbon-free energy system,” states Julia Hamm, President and CEO of the Smart Electric Power Alliance.

Bob Perciasepe, President of Center for Climate and Energy Solutions agrees: “When one of the largest energy holdings companies in the United States and the largest by number of customers served says it’s going net zero, the world takes notice.” Rich Powell, Executive Director of ClearPath, observes, “Market signals like these demonstrate that transitioning to clean energy can be as positive for affordability and reliability as it is for addressing climate change.”

As one of the nation’s largest electricity producers, Duke Energy is poised to set the standard for other utilities. Its ambitious carbon reduction goals demonstrate how these companies can lead the way for critical climate action nationally and around the world.

What is your utility’s carbon emissions reduction plan? Please share in the comments.