Carbon Offsets

Carbon offsets are a method for mitigating the effects of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by funding projects that reduce or remove carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. By purchasing carbon offsets, organizations can offset their own carbon emissions by supporting projects that promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, reforestation, or other activities that reduce or remove GHG emissions. 

Our Investment in Certified Carbon Offsets 

Our initial investment in certified carbon offsets will compensate for 25% of emissions produced by natural gas in Charlottesville. Participation in the carbon offsets program adds about 60 cents a month to the average bill for Charlottesville Gas customers. The certified carbon offset program has been generally supported, with 83% of respondents to Charlottesville Gas's residential survey from BeHeardCVA, conducted by UVA's Center for Research, indicating support for the existing program. Of the respondents, 43% support greatly expanding the offset program, 28% support slightly expanding the offset program, and 12% believe the program should remain as is. Certified carbon offsets complement our energy efficiency initiatives and home weatherization program, and help us support environmental stewardship.    

Certified Carbon Offsets 

Charlottesville Gas uses certified carbon offsets as part of its ongoing emissions reduction strategies. Certified carbon offsets have undergone rigorous third-party verification and certification processes to ensure that the carbon reduction or removal projects they support are credible, transparent, and permanent. The certified carbon offset projects supported by Charlottesville Gas were verified by Verra and its Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) Program and  by American Carbon Registry (ACR) and its stringent ACR Standard, both endorsed by the International Carbon Reduction and Offset Alliance (ICROA).

Certified Carbon Offset Projects 

The table below provides more information on the certified carbon offset projects that were supported by Charlottesville Gas. All of the offset credits purchased with these projects have already occurred and created permanent GHG reductions or removals. These projects would not have taken place if it had not been for the financial support from carbon credits.