Leading the way with science-based climate targets

In 2023, Å Energi will apply to expand Agder Energi's existing science-based climate targets in line with the framework of The Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) to include the entire new group Å Energi

"In Å Energi, we work to together to create a world powered by clean energy. Our goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from our own operations by 50 percent by 2030", says Jan Atle Liodden, head of CSR at Å Energi.

Science-based Targets intiative is a joint international intiative, which state that targets should reflect the Paris Agreement’s 1.5-degree goal.

For Å Energi, there are three areas that will be particularly important:

• Reduce emissions from the vehicles used at our sites by replacing them with electric ones.
• Meet the peak loads on district heating plants with electricity.
• Reduce SF6 emissions from our infrastructure.

"We want to be part of the solution, but we have to clean up our own backyard first. That’s why it is important to minimise the negative environmental impacts of our own electricity generation, as well as maximise its environmental benefits by helping our customers to transition to renewable energy, says Liodden.

He adds that Å Energi is also continuing to document that it consumes renewable energy using guarantees of origin from hydroelectric power stations.

“When we build and maintain the dams for our power stations, it currently leads to significant indirect greenhouse gas emissions from the goods and services we purchase and the cement used in concrete. We don’t want to slow down the rate at which we develop renewable hydroelectric power. But by requiring our concrete suppliers to set themselves targets under the Science Based Targets initiative by 2025, we hope to inspire others to take more climate action”, says Liodden.

Facts about the Science Based Targets

• Science Based Targets (SBT) is a joint initiative by CDP, the UN Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
• Since their launch in 2015, 1259 companies have committed themselves to setting science based targets, and over 623 companies have had their targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative.

You can read more about the Science Based Targets here