Williams, which owns one of the largest natural gas pipeline systems in the United States, said it joined forces with technology stalwart Microsoft Corp. to explore new ways to transform its energy infrastructure network as it pursues a net-zero emissions ambition.

Williams natural gas projects

“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,” CEO Alan Armstrong said in announcing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Microsoft on Thursday.

“This alignment between two forward-looking companies” aims to demonstrate “the environmental and economic benefits that are possible when we work together to achieve reductions in carbon emissions,” Armstrong...