Williams has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Microsoft on June 3 to explore ways to transform one of the nation’s largest energy infrastructure networks through digital technology and innovation while advancing our net zero emissions goals.

“Williams shares Microsoft’s vision for a low carbon future. Likewise, Williams is committed to helping our customers achieve their sustainability goals while meeting energy demand with the reliability of clean natural gas and renewable energy sources,” Alan Armstrong, president and CEO at Williams, said. “This alignment between two forward-looking companies demonstrates the environmental and economic benefits that are possible when we work together to achieve reductions in carbon emissions.”

“Microsoft looks forward to working with Williams on their energy transition journey,” Darryl Willis, corporate vice president of energy at Microsoft, siad. “Through digital transformation and a focus on a net zero carbon future, we will be able to unlock new business models and untapped value.”

Through the MoU, Williams and Microsoft will begin to explore lower carbon opportunities with a focus on the development of a hydrogen economy, renewable natural gas products, carbon capture utilization and storage, and energy storage solutions; evaluate ways for Williams to leverage Microsoft Azure services and solutions to further improve emissions monitoring and reporting; and identify operational efficiencies through a connected workforce and data-driven intelligence.

The MoU also supports Williams’ near-term climate commitment of 56% absolute reduction in company-wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030 by leveraging technology available today to reduce emissions, scale renewables and build a clean energy economy—while looking forward and anticipating future innovations on the path to net zero by 2050.

Since 2005, Williams’ infrastructure has helped the U.S. decrease GHG emissions by 33 million metric tons—the equivalent of removing more than 7 million gasoline-powered cars from the road for a year.