Key Impact Points:
- Disney and Netflix co-fund the Clean Mobile Power Initiative to test clean energy tech on production sets, aiming to replace diesel generators.
- New systems, including hydrogen generators and battery storage, reduce emissions and improve on-set air quality and noise levels.
- Industry-wide scaling efforts focus on training crews, incentivizing clean power use, and encouraging city support in major filming locations like Vancouver and London.
Clean Energy Transformation on Set
Disney and Netflix are spearheading the Clean Mobile Power Initiative, a co-funded accelerator program testing innovative energy solutions to phase out diesel generators on production sets. The initiative is piloting seven battery energy storage systems, two hydrogen-powered generators, and a hybrid power system, all designed to power essential on-set equipment without relying on diesel.
With over 700,000 tons of emissions linked to diesel generators in the entertainment industry each year, this initiative represents a critical step toward reducing the environmental impact of film and television production.
Scaling Clean Energy Tech Across Productions
Disney and Netflix face challenges in scaling these technologies beyond individual sets. “We want more of this stuff, but because we aren’t the purchasers, it has been difficult to influence,” explained Lisa Day, Disney’s senior manager of sustainable productions. Both companies primarily rent equipment and are working with specialized suppliers, including MBS Group, Sunbelt Rentals, and Quixote by Sunset Studios, to facilitate trials in real-world conditions.
A New Standard for Sustainable Sets
The Clean Mobile Power Initiative’s tests are carefully selected, with technology criteria including a capacity for 140-220 kilowatts, compatibility with limited parking space, and cost competitiveness with diesel by 2030. “Testing the technology in real-world conditions is something we actually have to arrange for them,” said Emma Stewart, chief sustainability officer at Netflix. This rigorous evaluation aims to establish a reliable list of clean energy equipment for widespread use in the industry.
Financial Support for Cleaner Productions
Netflix and Disney provide funding to cover clean energy technology costs beyond standard production budgets. Netflix offers a fuel reduction allowance within its sustainability investments, while Disney funds some of these expenses through research and development. Productions like Stranger Things, Bridgerton, and Virgin River are already utilizing a mix of solar, battery, and hydrogen power units, actively exploring the potential of sustainable sets.
City Support for Clean Filming Environments
Vancouver and London are implementing measures to discourage diesel generator use on sets. Vancouver has established hydropower kiosks for sets and plans a city-wide network of clean energy stations, while London invests in clean power infrastructure at common filming sites. “Investing in the tech and being very explicit with vendors as to what our collective specifications look like is going to grow that supply faster,” noted Stewart.
Building Confidence with Crew Training
To facilitate this transition, Disney and Netflix are holding educational sessions on clean energy technology, emphasizing workforce development. “Folks want to know that the equipment works,” said Zena Harris, president of Green Spark Group, who consults on sustainable production practices. Training now extends to all crew members who rely on on-site power, including catering teams.
Leadership in Sustainable Production
Advocating for clean technology on set requires leadership support. Earth Angel’s Emellie O’Brien notes, “Having someone in a creative role advocating for these technologies, such as the director, executive producer or top talent, is important…Someone at the top needs to take the risk.” Netflix and Disney are hiring senior executives with clean technology expertise to advise on sustainable production practices, helping to embed these innovations in Hollywood’s future.
