Friday 15 November 2019

National Grid targets net zero emissions by 2050

National Grid has revised its target for reducing its own direct greenhouse gas emissions to match the UK’s 2050 net zero goal.

Chief Executive John Pettigrew said the organisation was on track to achieving its previous goal of a 70% reduction by 2030 and 80% reduction by 2050, having delivered a 68% fall in emissions to date.

National Grid wanted to be “bolder and more ambitious” to lead the industry in this area and therefore set out the new goal, exploring various ways to reduce its direct emissions, from reducing the leakage from gas pipelines through the use of robots to electrifying its vehicle fleet.

Mr Pettigrew added: “All of the regions in which we operate have aspirations for a clean energy future and we want to play our part in helping them get there. That’s why, as well as our own direct emissions, we are also committed to working with government and regulators in all the markets we serve to help them meet their own carbon reduction emission targets.”

The target, however, does include indirect emissions from the energy sold to consumers but the organisation said it is supporting it through initiatives such as energy efficiency programmes and incentivising the supply chain to reduce the carbon impact of construction projects.

National Grid is also helping create a market for green finance by publishing a Green Financing Framework, which will support sustainable financing across the Group.

Mr Pettigrew said: “Those are just a few examples of the actions we’re taking and there are plenty more to come. We don’t have all the answers yet, but we are working hard on the pathway and I’m inspired every day by the passion, commitment and unwavering determination of our people to play their part in a net zero future.”