Electrons have no identity: setting right misrepresentations in Google and Apple’s clean energy purchasing

Chukwuka Monyei, Kirsten Jenkins

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Aside dedicated generation, transmission and distribution networks, the hype around corporations and other entities purchasing so called clean energy may be considered a deliberate accounting misrepresentation. To illustrate this case in this short perspective, we begin by explaining the technical difficulties of remaining “renewables pure”. We then give case studies of two organisations – Apple Inc. and Google LLC – who are, arguably, at fault of making such claims. The method is a simple, non-systematic comparison between what is technically possible, and what is claimed to be possible. Given that incongruous renewables claims have the potential to further impoverish vulnerable households who must bear the financial costs of renewables integration, we conclude that a successful decarbonisation pathway must not have selective winners or losers.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)48-51
Number of pages4
JournalEnergy Research and Social Science
Volume46
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 28 Jun 2018

Keywords

  • Electricity generation
  • Clean energy
  • Power purchase agreements
  • Renewables

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