GHG Emissions, Utilities  -  February 25, 2020

Consumers Energy commits to net zero emissions by 2040

In a groundbreaking move by a utility, Consumers Energy announced Feb. 24 a new goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions before 2040.

To achieve this goal, the Michigan utility plan to eliminate coal, boost renewable fuel sources and encourage customers to reduce energy use and waste. Their 2019 Clean Energy Plan outlines a path to meeting Michigan’s energy needs by 2040 while reducing 90% of the emissions they generate and working alongside customers to meet the remaining reduction in emissions.

If successful, Consumers Energy should be able to avoid the need to build three new power plants and eliminate the impact of carbon emissions created by the electricity they generate.

“We often say that no one can do everything, but everyone can do something,” President and CEO Patti Poppe said in a statement. “Consumers Energy is proud to do our part to protect the planet with our new goal, and we look forward to working with Michigan residents to help them understand and do their part so we can accomplish great things together.”

Consumers Energy also plans to offset emissions using other methods such as carbon sequestration, landfill methane capture or large-scale tree planting, while pursuing new technologies and policies aimed at carbon reduction.

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