Exelon corporation: Strategic greenhouse gas management

Abstract

Exelon Corporation has been a leading provider of reliable, low carbon generation since its formation in 2001. The company has advocated for a price on carbon and voiced support for climate change action. In 2008, Exelon announced its Exelon 2020 goal to abate 15.7 million metric tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions annually by 2020. By focusing on internal operations, overall grid emissions and customer energy efficiency programs, Exelon 2020 pushed the bounds of traditional GHG management by using an end-to-end value chain perspective. This strategic approach created value by informing and guiding investment decisions, shaping corporate culture, providing competitive advantage for customers and positioning the company as a leader on environmental public policy. The future of carbon policy remains uncertain, but by most indications, we are transitioning to a less carbon intensive world. Positioning the company for this future is fundamental to the sustainability of the business. The Exelon 2020 program helped to bridge the topic and shows how reliability, customer and shareholder value, and competitive markets are an important part of the carbon conversation.