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

Monyei, Chukwuka; Jenkins, Kirsten E.H.

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.

Citation

Monyei, C., & Jenkins, K. E. (2018). Electrons have no identity: Setting right misrepresentations in Google and Apple's clean energy purchasing. Energy Research and Social Science, 46, 48-51. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.erss.2018.06.015

• Journal Article Type: Short Survey
• Acceptance Date: Jun 26, 2018
• Publication Date: Dec 1, 2018
• Deposit Date: Dec 20, 2018
• 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