UKPN sets outs science-based approach to 2028 net-zero goal

UK Power Networks (UKPN) has had its carbon reduction plan and targets endorsed by the Science-Based Target Initiative.

The distribution network operator said it is on course to reach net zero for all directly-controllable carbon emissions by 2028. This comprises a 42 per cent reduction in these emissions based on the 2018/19 level, with the rest offset.

UKPN is now working with The Carbon Trust to model the actions it needs to take to reduce emissions across all its activities, including its supply chain.

Verified science-based targets are aligned with the Paris Agreement, an international treaty on climate change to limit the global temperature increase to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, while aiming for 1.5 degrees.

Other companies in the utilities sector to have their targets verified in this way include SSE and National Grid.

UKPN said it has already reduced its carbon emissions by 26 per cent since 2014/15. This is based on Ofgem’s reporting requirements, taking into account areas such as building and substation gas and electricity usage, fuel used in fleet and generators by UKPN and network-facing contractors, SF6 leakage, business mileage including for network-facing contractors and staff business travel.

By 2028, the company has pledged to achieve a 25 per cent decrease for its entire carbon footprint and is investing £120 million to achieve this.

Specific commitments for 2028 include:

• Using only electricity from renewable sources in its buildings
• Increasing use of sustainable materials such as low carbon concrete
• Replacing all its suitable vans and cars with Electric Vehicles (EVs) (around two thirds of the fleet), making sure areas with poor air quality get EVs first
• Recycling 80 per cent of waste, and sending nothing that can be recycled to landfill
• Introducing lower carbon fuels and hybrids into its mobile generator fleet
• Creating new wildlife habitats on 100 substation sites, building new hedgerows, ponds and introducing wildflower meadows
• Making its offices more energy efficient by installing LED lights, solar panels, and low carbon heating

Mark Adolphus, UKPN’s director of health, safety, sustainability and connections, said: “Our customers, stakeholders and our regulator have been clear – the environment is a priority for them and we listen to that.

“Our ambition is to go further and faster so we have set challenging, but achievable, targets. We have combined our insights with those of expert stakeholders, considering international best practice and responding to the views of our customers, to make this promise today.”

Aleyn Smith-Gillespie, associate director at The Carbon Trust Advisory, said: “We were delighted to work with UK Power Networks and help them align their reduction targets to science. As an organisation key to delivering the energy transition it is great to see them also committed to reduce the emissions associated with their operations and their supply chain and to have a credible plan to achieve these ambitious targets.”