US energy company Xcel Energy has announced a goal to deliver 100% carbon-free electricity to customers by 2050.
In addition the company also announced plans to reduce carbon emissions 80% by 2030, from 2005 levels in the eight states where it has customers.
“This is an extraordinary time to work in the energy industry, as we’re providing customers more low-cost clean energy than we could have imagined a decade ago,” said Xcel chief executive Ben Fowke.
“We’re accelerating our carbon reduction goals because we’re encouraged by advances in technology, motivated by customers who are asking for it and committed to working with partners to make it happen.”
Colorado governor-elect Jared Polis said: “When I launched my campaign back in 2017 we had a bold agenda for our state to get to 100 percent renewable by 2040. Xcel Energy’s exciting announcement today, along with the strong climate goals communities like Pueblo, Summit County, Ft. Collins, Denver and others across the state have embraced, shows we are leading the way forward right here in Colorado – by committing to a renewable and clean energy future.”
Xcel Energy’s track record includes reducing carbon emissions 35 percent since 2005, as part of its previous goal to cut carbon 60 percent by 2030. The company believes that its 2030 goal can be achieved affordably with renewable energy and other technologies currently available.
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock said: “Congratulations to Xcel Energy and all of its customers for this bold, progressive commitment to reducing and ultimately eliminating carbon emissions. I’m grateful for our partnership with Xcel Energy, the nation’s leading utility, when it comes to building a path toward a clean energy future.”
Hancock added that Denver is committed to an affordable, reliable and sustainable energy future. “This is a game-changer for addressing the threats of climate change and will be a tremendous asset in achieving our own renewable electricity and emission reduction goals,” he said.