4.11.1 - On what policies, laws, or regulations that may (positively or negatively) impact the environment has your organization been engaging directly with policy makers in the reporting year?

California's Climate Disclosure Legislation (SB 253 and SB 261)

Akamai supported full funding for California's climate disclosure mandates, SB 253 and SB 261, to ensure timely implementation of corporate climate accountability. The alignment of California's standards with frameworks like the TCFD and current GHGP mirrors Akamai's focus on transparent, standardized and impactful emissions reporting. As part of a coalition, Akamai emphasized that these laws will provide reliable climate-related risk data, helping companies, investors, and the public make informed decisions.

Virginia's Participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI)

Akamai backed Virginia's continued participation in the RGGI, a regional cap-and-trade program. The RGGI has brought more than $820 million to Virginia, used to fund energy efficiency projects and flood resilience. Akamai's advocacy underscores the role of market-based solutions in reducing carbon pollution, supporting our long-term aspiration of a low-carbon economy.

Support for Grid Reliability in California (AB 2368)

California's AB 2368 focuses on improving grid reliability, especially critical as the state faces power shortages due to extreme weather. Akamai's support for this legislation reflects our need for a stable energy grid to achieve net-zero goals, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and maintain sustainable business operations. AB 2368's framework aligns with Akamai's focus on building a resilient infrastructure that can adapt to climate impacts.

Southeast Grid Modernization and Economic Growth Initiatives

Akamai joined other energy customers in the Southeast to advocate for grid modernization policies across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. The recommendations include leveraging federal incentives for clean energy deployment, updating transmission lines, and supporting voluntary investments in renewables. Akamai's involvement emphasizes our dedication to grid modernization as a necessary step toward achieving energy efficiency and meeting the growing electricity demand while supporting the low-carbon transition.

Virginia SAVE Act for Energy Efficiency

In Virginia, Akamai supported the Savings Achieved Via Efficiency (SAVE) Act to establish binding energy efficiency standards. This act is expected to help large energy consumers, like Akamai, lower operational costs, increase resilience, and reduce carbon emissions through utility-driven efficiency programs. The act aligns with Akamai's sustainability framework, driving resource efficiency and cost savings as the company advances our sustainability goals.

Virginia Legislative Briefing at AES Spotsylvania Solar

In August 2024, Akamai co-hosted a site visit to the AES Spotsylvania Solar facility in Virginia, the largest solar project east of the Rockies. This event provided policymakers, businesses, and local chambers with an in-depth look at the facility's operations, including its active substation, integrated sheep grazing for vegetation management, and the expansive Highlander solar array. The visit facilitated discussions on the benefits of renewable energy deployment in the Commonwealth and strategies to attract new economic opportunities across Virginia.

Akamai's involvement in this initiative underscores our goal to advancing renewable energy and engaging with stakeholders to promote sustainable practices. By showcasing the practical applications and economic advantages of large-scale solar projects, Akamai aims to inspire policy decisions that align with our 2030 sustainability goals, including achieving 100% renewable energy usage and reducing carbon emissions. This engagement reflects Akamai's dedication to fostering collaborative efforts that drive the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Pennsylvania Renewable Energy and Sustainability Support (PRESS) Legislation

Akamai joined other businesses in supporting Pennsylvania's PRESS legislation, which aims to advance clean energy, foster sustainability, and drive economic growth in the state. This legislation aligns with Akamai's goals of achieving 100% renewable energy and reducing emissi ons by 2030. Key elements Akamai endorses include:

• Clean Energy Infrastructure

  PRESS will fund renewable energy projects, making Pennsylvania a regional leader in clean energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

• Sustainability Innovation Hub

  PRESS proposes a hub to bring together businesses, universities, and government to drive sustainability innovation — an initiative aligned with Akamai's focus on collaborative, climate-focused solutions.

• Workforce Development

  PRESS will support training programs to build a skilled workforce in renewable energy, with a focus on including marginalized communities.

• Corporate Renewable Energy Incentives

  The legislation offers incentives for companies to adopt renewable energy, helping businesses lower operational emissions and supporting sustainable growth.

Clean Energy Demand Initiative (CEDI)

The Clean Energy Demand Initiative (CEDI)  is a collaborative platform established by the U.S. Department of State to unite corporations and countries in advancing clean energy goals. Launched during COP26, CEDI facilitates partnerships where companies express demand for renewable energy, and countries develop policies to attract clean energy investments. This initiative aims to accelerate the global transition to a low-carbon economy by leveraging corporate priorities to drive the deployment of clean energy infrastructure. 

Akamai engaged with CEBA and CEDI in a series of strategic meetings with delegations from Japan, Vietnam, India, and Indonesia. These discussions aimed to advance clean energy policies and programs, fostering collaboration between corporate energy buyers and national governments to accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources.