California utility reaches the state’s renewable energy goal ahead of schedule
February 26, 2018PG&E has reached a new renewable energy milestone
The Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has reached California’s renewable energy goal ahead of schedule. The state has set up a goal to derive the majority of its electrical power from renewable energy sources by 2020. Utilities are being pressured to embrace clean power in order to help the state distance itself from fossil-fuels. PG&E has been pursuing this goal aggressively and now derives approximately 80% of its electrical power from renewable energy.
33% of utility’s electricity came from renewable sources in 2017
According to the utility, 33% of its electricity came from wind, solar, geothermal, biomass, and hydroelectric systems in 2017. Approximately 78.8% of the utility’s electricity comes from other sources, such as large hydropower systems and nuclear energy plants. By embracing renewable energy, PG&E has been able to reduce carbon emissions. The utility also notes that clean power has allowed it to deliver more reliable service to consumers in California.
Utility is showing strong support for clean transportation
PG&E is not only working to embrace renewable energy, of course. The utility is also investing in bolstering California’s clean transportation infrastructure. Recently, PG&E launched its EV Charge Network program. The program seeks to install some 7,500 electric charging stations across Northern and Central California. These charging stations may help make electric vehicles significantly more attractive to consumers.
PG&E has been a leading presence in renewable energy adoption for many years
PG&E has been an advocate for renewable energy in California for many years. The utility launched its first energy conservation programs in the 1970s and was among the first to form power purchase agreements with clean energy producers. The utility is moving to embrace more promising forms of clean energy as well. In 2025, the utility plans to replace a nuclear power plant with other clean energy systems, such as solar or wind. These systems are likely to have a higher overall energy capacity than the current nuclear facility that is in operation.