American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., announced it achieved its short-term emissions goal with a 41.5% reduction.

American Water considers renewable energy sources either through negotiating power purchase agreements or through adding renewable energy such as solar arrays. The company also participates in and support energy efficiency and rebate programs, such as the EPA’s WaterSense program, according to its ninth Sustainability Report.  

The company’s operations require energy to deliver water and wastewater services to its customers. The vast majority of American Water’s electricity consumption and its Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions relate to pumping water and wastewater. By increasing pumping efficiency, American Water can reduce energy usage from water delivery, resulting in fewer GHG emissions.

“The Sustainability Report demonstrates American Water’s ongoing commitment to providing safe, clean, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater services across the U.S.,” said Cheryl Norton, EVP and Chief Operating Officer, American Water, in a statement. “Our 2024 progress shows that customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders benefit through our dedication to sustainable operations.”

American Water prepared the Sustainability Report by applying standards from the Global Reporting Initiative, Sustainability Accounting Standards Board, and the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures. It includes applicable metrics from the Edison Electric Institute and American Gas Association Sustainability reporting template. The report also takes into consideration the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and aligns with the company’s responses to the CDP Questionnaire.