SRP is committed to helping our customers lower their carbon footprint and reach their sustainability goals. We recognize the need for climate-changing action.

That’s why SRP is committed to doing all we can to shrink greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining a reliable and affordable supply of power and water.

What are carbon emissions?

Greenhouse gases are gases that trap the sun’s heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, much like a greenhouse. Carbon emissions come from carbon dioxide, or CO₂, being released into the air. It’s one of the main greenhouse gases, and it’s the one SRP is most focused on.

“One of the most significant goals that SRP has, and it’s really kind of a guidepost for our future, is our carbon reduction goal.”

Kelly Barr, ASSOCIATE GENERAL MANAGER & SUSTAINaBiLiTY executive

Many energy companies, including SRP, generate power using fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas. Because burning fossil fuels creates CO₂ emissions, SRP is shifting our energy mix to include more renewable sources. Otherwise known as clean energy, this includes wind, solar, nuclear and hydroelectric power.

As part of our commitment to our customers, we’ve addressed carbon emissions in our 2035 Sustainability Goals. These goals are a set of bold steps we’re taking to make sustainable practices part of our day-to-day operations.

Setting big but achievable goals

“One of the most significant goals that SRP has, and it’s really kind of a guidepost for our future, is our carbon reduction goal,” said Kelly Barr, one of SRP’s sustainability leaders. “Lessening our carbon footprint will require changes across the company, so we’ve created a set of goals to help track our progress.”

More clean energy sources

Goal 1: Cut carbon emissions from generating energy by 62% by 2035 and by 90% by 2050.

Ellen Zuckerman of the Southwest Energy Efficiency Project recently put the goal’s impact into simpler terms.

“SRP’s committed to a two-part goal. Essentially, they have agreed by 2035 to reduce the carbon emissions from their power generation fleet by 62%. And then by 2050, to reduce it by 90%. Just to put that in perspective for you, the target for 2035 is equivalent to removing the emissions of 1.5 million cars from the road for 15 years,” said Ellen Zuckerman, Senior Associate and Arizona Representative, Southwest Energy Efficiency Project.  

To reduce our carbon emissions, SRP chose to measure carbon intensity, which is pounds of CO₂ emitted per megawatt-hour (MW) of energy produced. That means that even as customers need more energy, we need to cut our carbon emissions at the same time.

This also means we will keep reducing carbon emissions as we grow. To help produce more clean energy, SRP is investing heavily in zero-emissions solar energy. SRP is in the process of adding more than 600 MW of utility-scale solar to our system. We’re now more than 60% of the way to our 2025 goal of adding 1,000 MW.

Did you know, 1,000 MW is equivalent to 1 GW? Read more about how we’re on our way to 1 GW of utility-scale solar.

More energy-efficient buildings

Goal 2: Cut carbon emissions in our facilities by 30% by 2035 (mass basis).

By changing how we build, power and operate our facilities, SRP is reducing its carbon footprint. By making smarter choices in our buildings, we earn more points toward a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.

We chose more energy-efficient air conditioners, water-saving fixtures and furniture and carpet made from recycled plastic. It’s greener and healthier for our employees and for the planet. Plus, cost savings add up over time, making it a smart investment for our future. Read about our LEED-certified headquarters in Phoenix.

Less carbon on the road

Goal 3: Cut carbon emissions from our fleet by 30% by 2035 (mass basis).

SRP is investing in a fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) to help cut down on emissions. Electric vehicles produce 30%-50% fewer carbon emissions than gas-powered cars. And they can save the company money on fuel.

As a company, we encourage employees to adopt EVs too. SRP currently has the largest workplace charging program in Arizona. More than 200 employees drive electric and charge their cars at work.

A smaller carbon footprint means less pollution

By reducing vehicle idling and investing in EVs, SRP can lower fuel costs, help improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Research shows that for every hour a vehicle idles, a half-gallon of fuel is wasted. So when we idle less, we can save money and help keep pollution out of the air.

When it comes to cutting carbon emissions, small changes can make a big difference. Here are some steps you can take right now:

• Take a look at what you are already doing. There are lots of ways to go green – and you may already be on your way. Take inventory.
• Try this carbon footprint calculator. Thanks to the Nature Conservancy, you can estimate your very own carbon footprint with their carbon footprint calculator. After you calculate your carbon footprint, it explains ways that you can reduce it.

5 ways you can join SRP in cutting carbon emissions.

SRP offers many opportunities for customers to cut emissions and help protect the environment. Here are a few:

1. Save energy and money with these energy-saving tips.
2. Get discounts on energy-saving products for your home at SRP Marketplace.
3. Support solar power for local nonprofits through the SRP Solar for Nonprofits program.
4. Buy an Electric Vehicle (EV)
5. Install solar panels using an SRP preferred solar installer, like Element Energy.