Puget Sound Energy plans net-zero carbon emissions by 2045

Puget Sound Energy (PSE) shared its goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045 during the Lacey City Council work session on July 22.

PSE is the natural gas and electricity utility provider serving 1.5 million customers across Thurston and nine other counties in Washington. With this presentation, PSE shared its commitment for the future in their “Beyond Net Carbon” goal.

According to Climate Council, a climate change communications organization, net-zero carbon emissions do not necessarily mean that companies cannot produce greenhouse gases. It simply refers to “achieving an overall balance between greenhouse gas emissions produced and greenhouse gas emissions taken out of the atmosphere.” These greenhouse gas emissions include carbon dioxide and methane.

In a presentation, PSE’s senior government affairs representative Matthew Mauer shared some of the company’s plans to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane emissions. 

Methane is especially harmful to the environment as it traps heat within the atmosphere, according to Mauer.

To achieve its goal, PSE is looking into carbon-free resources for its energy supply. This includes increasing renewable sources such as using solar and wind energy. In addition, the energy provider plans to electrify most of their vehicles by 2030.

Currently, the company is soliciting comments on its first Clean Energy Implementation Plan (CEIP). The CEIP is a four-year roadmap that will guide PSE to achieve its goal of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions through clean electricity actions, as well as the drafting programs and determining the necessary investments. Once approved, the company will implement its CEIP program by 2022 to 2025.

Mauer shared a quote from PSE President and CEO Mary Kipp. “Climate change is an existential threat that cannot be ignored, we are doing our part to move further and faster to save our planet.”

Aside from reducing their carbon emissions, Mauer noted that PSE also offers a COVID (Pandemic) Bill Assistance Program which provides assistance for customers who are struggling to pay their bills. A qualified customer may receive up to $2,500 in energy assistance. Click here for more information.