UK Power Networks works with Carbon Trust to set science-based targets

UK Power Networks claims to have become the first UK distribution network operator to have its carbon reduction plan and targets endorsed by the Science-Based Target Initiative. The company reports it is on course to achieve net zero for all its directly-controllable carbon emissions by 2028.

Working with The Carbon Trust, UK Power Networks mapped the carbon footprint of all its emissions, including its supply chain, and modelled the actions it will take to reduce emissions and set challenging targets across all its activities. The company has already reduced its carbon emissions by 26% since 2014/2015 and is targeting a 42% reduction in directly-controllable emissions by 2028, offsetting any remaining directly-controllable emissions to become net zero from 2028 onwards.

UK Power Networks is investing £120mn over the next seven years to achieve its emissions goals and a number of other targets before 2028, including only using renewable electricity from renewable sources in its buildings; replacing all the company’s suitable vans and cars with electric vehicles (around two thirds of the fleet), making sure areas with poor air quality get EVs first; recycling 80% of waste and sending nothing that can be recycled to landfill; introducing lower carbon fuels and hybrids into its mobile generator fleet; and working in partnership with suppliers to help reduce their carbon emissions.

Photo: UK Power Networks