Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas), the largest gas utility in the United States, has announced plans to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in its operations and delivery of energy by 2045.
This commitment makes SoCalGas the largest gas distribution utility in North America to set a net zero target including scopes 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions, which would eliminate not only its own direct emissions, but also those generated by customers’ energy delivered by SoCalGas’ energy infrastructure.
“Our mission is to build the cleanest, safest, and most innovative energy company in America,” said Scott Drury, CEO at SoCalGas. “We will lead the energy transition by providing clean fuels and innovative technologies essential to carbon neutrality for California. Through collaboration and partnership, California can develop clean energy solutions at scale and serve as a global beacon for energy innovation.”
SoCalGas serves nearly 22 million residents, representing half the state’s population. Over the next five years, SoCalGas plans to invest in initiatives to decarbonize, diversify, and digitalize the business. To guide SoCalGas’ path to net zero, the company released a Climate Commitment Announcement, laying out a timeline that includes the following:
By 2025:
- Achieve net zero energy for 100% of SoCalGas’ newly constructed buildings and major renovations of buildings over 10,000 square feet.
- Replace 50% of SoCalGas’ over-the-road fleet with electric, hybrid, natural gas, and/or fuel cell electric vehicles.
- Establish statewide hydrogen blending standards.
- Complete five hydrogen pilot projects.
By 2030:
- Eliminate 100% of vented gas during planned transmission pipeline work.
- Achieve net zero energy for 50% of all SoCalGas existing buildings.
- Deliver 20% renewable natural gas.
By 2035:
- Operate a 100% zero emissions over-the-road fleet.
- Achieve net zero energy for 100% of SoCalGas buildings.
