Environment
leading the clean energy transition
At Ormat, we lead the way to a lower carbon future by providing renewable energy and storage services to communities around the globe. We’re also committed to mitigating the effects of climate change by closely tracking and reducing emissions associated with our own operations and business practices.
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As of today, we own and operate: 1058 MW Geothermal in 6 countries, 270 MW Energy Storage, 50 MW Recovered Energy Generation (REG) and 122 MW Solar PV
INCREASING CLEAN ENERGY PRODUCTION
From 2019-2023, our production portfolio increased by 34%. In 2023, we had a 8% increase in production of renewable energy compared to 2022.
In 2023 we generated:
- 8,763,125 Total MWh of (gross) geothermal energy
- 218,594 Total MWh of (gross) REG
- 138,961 Total MWh of (Net) storage services
- 77,860 Total MWh of (gross) solar energy
Additionally, the renewable energy we generated avoided 2,212,508 metric tonnes of CO2e emissions, compared to the local grid carbon intensity at our locations.
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Geothermal energy is a local resource, offers communities reliable renewable energy 24/7, and is not affected by weather. Our geothermal power plants emit 99% less CO2 and 97% less sulfur compounds compared to fossil fuel plants of a similar size.
CARBON REDUCTION TARGETS
We’re on a journey to set carbon reduction targets through strategic mitigation plans. Aligned with GHG Protocol and SBTi guidance, our decarbonization model highlights key areas for emission reduction.
While our primarily residual emissions present unique challenges in setting reduction targets, our thorough evaluation process will guide our future steps and reinforce our dedication to global climate initiatives.
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scope 1
15% reduction
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scope 2
25% reduction
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INTENSITY
28% reduction in GHG emissions intensity (tCO2e/MWh)
*Compered with 2019 baseline
We also secured 97% electricity consumption from self-generated sustainable energy.
OUR UPDATED TARGET AS OF 2023:
5% ANNUAL REDUCTION IN SCOPE 1 AND 2 GHG EMISSIONS INTENSITY (tCO2e/MWH) COMPARED TO OUR 2019 BASE YEAR.
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Between base year 2019 and 2022, our absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions decreased by 17%. Excluding new assets, our emissions have decreased by 21%.
MANAGING WATER AND WASTE
The management of water resources is critical and we’re committed to using it in the most sustainable manner. We aim to lead the sector and actively manage our water resources, especially in “water-stressed” areas. Our goal is to maximize water recycling at all locations by 2025.
We’re dedicated to managing waste and material use in an environmentally responsible way. To minimize our impact on the natural environment, we seek to reduce, reuse, reclaim, or recycle materials whenever possible. We’ve implemented voluntary waste reduction and reuse initiatives across our sites, including oil reuse, metal recycling, and construction waste removal.
In 2023, Ormat cooperated with the Inyo National Forest and Mono County, cleaned up and restored 2.5 acres of forest near the Mammoth facility, removing 14,720 lbs of trash, recycling 1,423 lead and shell casings, and safely disposing of 6 lbs of live ammunition.
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In 2022, we achieved a 39% increase in waste recycling, compared to 2021. 79% of our non-hazardous waste is recycled and 53% of our total (non-hazardous and hazardous) waste is recycled.
BIODIVERSITY INITIATIVES
Ormat is dedicated to protecting biodiversity and minimizing environmental impacts. From the design stage, we collaborate with local communities, NGOs, and experts to support local flora and fauna, continuously researching ways to reduce our environmental footprint.
KEY BIODIVERSITY INITIATIVES INCLUDE:
- Field Mouse Study: Initiated a five-year study at North Valley geothermal plant to ensure operations do not impact kangaroo mice habitats.
- Noise Mitigation for Sage Grouse: Implemented noise reduction measures at McGinness Hills geothermal plant to protect Sage Grouse during breeding season.
- Deer Crossings: Altered pipeline routes and installed deer crossings at Mammoth geothermal complex to maintain migratory paths for local deer.
- Tui Chub Fish Monitoring: Conducted annual monitoring of Tui Chub populations near Mammoth Complex to ensure their protection.
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The Ormat Integrated Quality, Environment, Health and Safety Policy outlines our commitment to Integrated principles of environmental sustainability and efforts, through the management of relevant risk and opportunities.
ORMAT ENVIRONMENTAL FAST FACTS
Leader in the geothermal energy sector, with a range of innovative products and solutions that contribute to the global renewable energy transition
ORMAT ENVIRONMENTAL FAST FACTS
Built geothermal and recovered energy power plants that produce more than 3,200 MW in 29 countries
ORMAT ENVIRONMENTAL FAST FACTS
Operate all of our geothermal and recovered energy power plants primarily without fossil fuel power
ORMAT ENVIRONMENTAL FAST FACTS
Continue to reduce our environmental impact as it relates to climate, water use, and waste reduction