Emissions
GOAL: Net zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2035
Goal update
Baseline (2017-2019): 53,623 MtCO2e
2024: 26,641 MtCO2e (50% reduction)
Goal: 5,362 MtCO2e
Metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent for Scope 1 and 2
Pathway to Net Zero
In 2021, First National conducted an extensive review of strategies to achieve net zero. A focus team of experts ideated and prioritized a number of different strategies to reduce emissions. Listed below are the strategies with a proposed completion date and associated annual impact.
- Interior LED replacement projects, 100% of remaining systems by 2030, -2,200 MtCO2e
- Exterior LED replacements, 100% of remaining systems by 2030, -500 MtCO2e
- Update building management control systems, 100% of remaining systems by 2030, -100 MtCO2e
- Electrify boilers, 100% of systems as they reach the end of operation or by 2050, -300 MtCO2e
- Upgrade fan wall systems, 100% by 2035, -1,100 MtCO2e
- Efficiency gains from occupancy, 100% by 2030, -8,900 MtCO2e
- Renewable energy certificates (RECs), or virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA), explore as needed
First National will also benefit from the grid adopting more carbon-neutral practices, as it will decrease the emissions factor used to calculate their overall impact. Overall, First National expects to reduce emissions in the built environment by approximately 67% by 2035 and 89% by 2050. To achieve carbon neutrality First National will either need to exceed these results or pursue carbon offsets, VPPAs, or another strategy that leads to net-zero emissions.
Renewable Energy Certificate Purchasing Through the Omaha Public Power District
Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) represent proof that electricity was generated from renewable energy sources and fed into the grid. By purchasing RECs, FNBO supports renewable energy development and offsets the environmental impact of its electricity usage.
FNBO is purchasing RECs through OPPD’s REC Program, ensuring that 100% of the Tower’s electricity usage is offset by renewable energy. From January through October 2024, FNBO purchased enough RECs to offset the Tower’s total electricity usage of 5,874,645 kWh (5,874 MWh). This commitment has avoided approximately 3,054 metric tons of CO₂e, equivalent to the annual emissions of 712 passenger vehicles or 410 homes’ energy use for a year.
Through its REC purchases, FNBO is making meaningful progress toward its sustainability goals and supporting a cleaner, greener future.
Recent Efforts
Tower Transformation
First National’s Tower has been upgraded with new mechanical equipment and building systems, which will improve energy efficiency.
Return to Work Plan
First National is dedicated to using space efficiently. The First National Tower is being redesigned to accommodate First National’s return-to-work plan, which is expected to reduce the square footage.
LED Replacements
First National has converted 85% of locations to use LED exterior lights. Additionally, 62% of all locations’ interior lighting has been converted to LED.
Community Solar
FNB entered into a community solar agreement for our Illinois branches. Thanks to this agreement, 70% of our electricity usage in this state will come from solar energy.
Fuel Cell Decommissioning
In 2020, First National decommissioned the natural gas fuel cell at the Tech Center. This change led to a reduction of 500 metric tons of carbon dioxide from natural gas annually.
Fan Wall Retrofit
First National recently replaced a fan wall in the First National Tower with a series of smaller fans. These fans can more efficiently condition the space. Savings vary dramatically based on total horsepower, but currently identified fan wall replacements can save between 200,000 – 2,000,000 kWh annually.
Upcoming Projects
LED Replacements
First National plans to convert all lighting to LEDs by 2030.
Renewable Energy Solutions
First National is continuing to explore onsite and offsite renewable energy sources to reduce overall energy emissions.
Fan Wall Replacements
First National plans to replace fan walls with more efficient systems by 2030. These systems can significantly reduce energy consumption in the Tower, Tech Center, and Business Park.
