Climate Commitment: Frequently Asked Questions
As one of the largest midstream companies, we commit to lead by example and evolve our business as the world moves to a low carbon future, while also helping our customers, stakeholders and communities meet their climate goals.
We understand action is necessary to meet growing demand for energy while minimizing impact to the environment. We are focused on a practical, immediate and affordable path to reduce emissions, support the viability of renewables and grow a clean energy economy – with solutions we can execute on today.
A “net zero” target refers to reaching net zero carbon emissions by a selected date, but differs from zero carbon, which requires no carbon to be emitted as the key criteria. Net zero refers to balancing the amount of emitted greenhouse gases with equivalent emissions offsets or sequestration.
We are prioritizing opportunities with the highest potential to reduce emissions in a strategic and targeted manner to manage costs and maximize outcomes, including:
- Reducing methane through work practices: Voluntary Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) and blowdown minimization
- Evaluating opportunities to cost-effectively reduce methane emitting equipment, such as rod packing and pneumatic devices
- Pursuing renewable natural gas opportunities
- Collaborating with peers and customers on reduction strategies through Williams-led initiatives, research organizations and trade groups
- Preparing for next generation technologies/approaches, including Carbon Capture, Use, and Storage (CCUS) and hydrogen as a fuel source
- Increasing renewable power generation to supply electric compression/demand
Technology enhancements to our operations adds to the safety and reliability of our services while also helping our customers reach environmental goals.
Our vision for a viable and sustainable low carbon future is supported by the active role natural gas plays in the clean energy mix. It creates a practical and affordable solution for immediately reducing emissions both in the U.S. and around the world. It is also key to maintaining reliability and enabling scaled up use of renewable energy sources. Natural gas generates up to 60% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than coal and is a reliable fuel source, making it the ideal partner for intermittent renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.
By exporting natural gas overseas via liquefied natural gas (LNG), the United States can share the clean energy benefits with other parts of the world that don’t have access to it.
