Duke Energy Unveils Path to Carbon-Free Power by 2050

Duke Energy Corporation aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions from electric generation by 2050, and cut emissions by at least 50 percent from 2005 levels by 2030, according to a Sept. 17 press release.

The company plans to double its renewable energy portfolio by 2025, and continue deploying low-cost natural gas to speed the transition from coal and maintain reliability. Duke’s 11-gigawatt nuclear fleet is considered central to its ability to meet the ambitious goals.

Grid modernization efforts, which include investments in a multiyear initiative to create a smarter and more resilient grid, will also support the transition. These grid improvements will accommodate more renewables, while avoiding outages and providing customers more control over their energy use, according to Duke.

Duke Energy said it is accelerating its 2030 goal following strong progress in reducing emissions by 31 percent since 2005. Sustained, low gas prices and declining costs for renewable and battery technologies led to the plan to raise the 2030 goal. The prior target of 40 percent by 2030 was one of the most ambitious at that time, the company said.