It’s imperative for utilities to recognize their role in combating climate change and to embrace measures to make critical change. Pepco recognizes that we are more than an energy company and can lead the charge on critical issues. We are proud of our efforts that allow us to be a driving force in building a more sustainable future for the communities we serve. Embracing this challenge puts Pepco in a leadership position to drive meaningful environmental action and lead an energy transformation for the next generation.
We recognize that every step we take, big or small, adds up to a healthier planet – one that future generations can enjoy for years to come. We’re leading by example on our Path to Clean journey, a multi-pronged approach to actively lower our carbon footprint. This includes embracing clean energy solutions, like solar power and electric vehicles, and innovating to modernize our infrastructure. Through our suite of energy efficiency programs, we’re also giving our customers the resources to join the sustainability journey, helping them save money on electricity bills while reducing their environmental impact.
Modernizing Critical Infrastructure
Pepco shares the District and Maryland’s vision for a healthy, green and livable future. As a company with critical energy infrastructure and a vested interest in this community, we’re committed to leading the charge on our region’s energy transformation.
Storms and weather events are becoming more severe each year, underscoring our need for a resilient, climate-ready grid. To achieve this, we’re embracing innovation with year-round proactive investments to increase resiliency, minimize outages and ensure consistent service. Together, these projects resulted in customers experiencing the lowest frequency of electric outages in 2023, and a 57 percent overall decrease in outages over the last decade.
Our Capital Grid Project is a 10-year strategy to enhance reliability by creating a smarter local energy grid while helping the District meet its clean energy goals. In tandem, we’re rebuilding our F Street and L Street substations to increase downtown energy capacity as part of our Downtown Distribution Resupply Project – one of many initiatives currently underway to build a smarter, stronger and cleaner energy grid.
Expanding Access to Clean Energy Solutions
A major part of combatting climate change is overcoming equity barriers. The unfortunate truth is that climate change disproportionately impacts under-resourced communities, making equity non-negotiable in the energy transformation. We’re committed to investing equitably in clean energy infrastructure and helping remove barriers and reduce up-front costs associated with transitioning to cleaner energy solutions.
As part of our EVsmart program, which provides customers with rebates, tools, and information on how to “go electric,” we have installed more than 200 public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Maryland, bringing us closer to our goal of installing 250 EV charging stations across Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties. Many of these chargers are placed in United States Department of Energy designated Justice40 communities, helping drive equitable access to charging infrastructure. Ultimately, our goal is to provide drivers with flexibility and the ability to travel across the region without worrying that they might run out of power. By expanding access, we can empower all communities and bridge the gap to a more sustainable future.
Teaming Up with Local, Likeminded Organizations
Pepco’s commitment to sustainability is an ongoing journey, one that we can’t embark on alone. We are dedicated to working with our communities, partners, and customers to foster a more inclusive and sustainable energy ecosystem.
During Earth Month, our employees are showcasing their passion to protect our planet. Throughout April, they’re donating their time and energy to volunteer for local nonprofits and organizations that are dear to their hearts, helping to clean local parks, plant trees, and recycle. Our shared commitment is further strengthened through our partnerships with the Arbor Day Foundation, the Anacostia Watershed Society, Sustainable Maryland, and so many more who share our vision of a brighter tomorrow.
As for our customers, we understand that they are key partners in creating a sustainable future, so we offer a variety of programs and tools that empower them to make informed choices about their energy consumption. From energy audits and rebate programs for energy-efficient appliances to personalized energy savings tips through My Account, we provide resources that help them save energy and money simultaneously.
Embracing innovation, championing responsible practices, and empowering our customers are the pillars of our sustainability strategy. While there’s always more to achieve, this Earth Month, we celebrate our progress and look forward to the exciting path ahead.