PwC pledges to use 100% renewable power by 2050
Professional services network PwC has joined RE100 with a target to source 100% renewable electricity for its global operations by 2050 and an interim goal of 70% by 2022.
The interim target will be met by PwC first sourcing renewables for 21 of its largest firms, extending the commitment to cover the rest of its operations by 2050. PwC will also offset residual electricity use until its 2050 target is met, helping to manage the transition.
Mike Peirce, Corporate Partnerships Director, The Climate Group, said: “By joining RE100 and committing to source 100% renewable electricity for its global operations, PwC makes it clear that renewable power is integral to a future-oriented business strategy.
“As a network of firms in over 150 countries, PwC is sending a powerful message that business has a key opportunity to grow demand for clean energy across the globe.”
Last year, 60% of electricity used by PwC’s largest operations – representing 88% of its revenue – came from renewable sources.
Bob Moritz, Global Chairman, PwC commented: “We believe business has a key role to play in solving societal challenges alongside other stakeholders. This commitment is for us recognition of the need to accelerate the pace of change, and individual business commitments, collectively, will make a critical difference to that.”
Over the past year PwC has reduced its global emissions by 4%, with emissions per employee reduced by 7%. PwC UK has achieved an 85% reduction of emissions from energy use over the last 11 years, and PwC Netherlands has introduced an internal cost of carbon.
Alongside its RE100 commitment, the consultancy giant is introducing an air travel offsetting program backed by strict criteria.
Colm Kelly, PwC Global Leadership Team member and Corporate Responsibility Board Chair, said:
“While our carbon impact is relatively low, it’s still important that we take action to tackle our emissions. Operating efficiently is simply good business and these commitments are a great way of keeping up momentum on embedding smarter ways of working. As we work towards our commitment we will offset unavoidable emissions from air travel by investing in high quality projects.”
RE100 is a global leadership initiative led by The Climate Group in partnership with CDP. It brings together leading companies committed to source 100% renewable electricity, growing demand for – and delivery of – clean power.
Source: Energyzine
