Electricity and natural gas provider Dominion Energy announced today new greenhouse gas emissions commitments, extending its net zero commitments to include emissions outside of its direct operations, and encompassing those originating downstream by customers and upstream by suppliers.

Dominion is one of the largest energy providers in the U.S., with more than 7 million customers in 18 states. The new commitments build on Dominion’s plans announced in February 2020 to achieve net zero carbon and methane emissions from power generation and natural gas operations by 2050.

The company stated that it will focus on three material Scope 3 categories, which cover nearly all of its Scope 3 emissions, including electricity purchased to power the grid, fuel for its power stations and gas distribution systems, and consumption by natural gas consumers. Dominion plans to reduce these emissions through programs focused on supplier engagement, customer empowerment, constructive public policy and technology innovation.

Some of the steps the company is taking to achieve its expanded commitments include supporting federal methane regulations, developing and advancing procurement practices that encourage transparency, pursuing innovative use of clean-burning hydrogen, pursuing reductions in the carbon intensity of power forced from the market, and continued investment in energy efficiency, among others.

Robert M. Blue, Dominion Energy’s Chair, President and CEO, said:

“These commitments are a natural next step, building upon our industry-leading programs to drive down carbon and methane emissions within our own operations. We are now formalizing our efforts to help customers and suppliers decarbonize, as part of our work to build a clean and sustainable company. Setting goals helps drive the innovation and focus we need to succeed. We’re already making progress on these vital goals and will continue to do so in the months and years to come.”

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