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Electrons have no identity: Setting right misrepresentations in Google and Apple's clean energy purchasing

Monyei, Chukwuka; Jenkins, Kirsten E.H.

Authors

Chukwuka Monyei

Kirsten E.H. Jenkins



Abstract

© 2018 Elsevier Ltd 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.

Journal Article Type Short Survey
Acceptance Date Jun 26, 2018
Publication Date Dec 1, 2018
Deposit Date Dec 20, 2018
Publicly Available Date Jun 28, 2019
Journal Energy Research and Social Science
Print ISSN 2214-6296
Publisher Elsevier
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 46
Pages 48-51
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.erss.2018.06.015
Keywords electricity generation, clean energy, power purchase agreements, renewables
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/856440
Publisher URL https://doi.org/10.1016/j.erss.2018.06.015
Contract Date Dec 20, 2018

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