Over 100 Energy Managers from more than 75 leading organisations across industry, commerce and the public sector met today in Birmingham for the Annual Awards ceremony of the scheme, sponsored by E.ON to celebrate a collective saving of 460,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide.
Organisations recognised for their commitment to cutting carbon through energy efficiency included the Royal Bank of Scotland, Pirelli, Tesco Stores Ltd and the first overseas accreditation, the British Army in Osnabrück. A range of public sector organisations were also recognised ranging from Merseyside Police to Durham University.
The economic and environmental importance of tackling climate change has prompted more organisations than ever before to strive for EEAS accreditation. This year a record number of 27 organisations achieved accreditation for the first time, together with 50 organisations that were reaccredited, demonstrating long term commitment from organisations to improve energy efficiency. The latest accreditations bring the total number of organisations working within the EEAS to over 250.
To achieve EEAS accreditation organisations need to show that they are making real energy savings through management commitment, investment and energy efficiency measures. The standards are stringently monitored by a team of energy experts from the National Energy Foundation with results moderated by the Energy Institute.
Dr Garry Felgate, Director of Delivery and External Relations, the Carbon Trust, commented: “This year’s impressive roll call of organisations demonstrates that energy efficiency remains the most effective way for most organisations to cut carbon emissions and at the same time save money year on year. The Stern Review showed the need to act now to tackle climate change and this year’s Awards are proof that organisations recognise cost and environmental benefits go hand in hand.”
The initiatives that came in for particular praise included:
- Merseyside Police for creating 130 volunteer energy champions from within the force to promote energy efficiency across the organisation.
- Harper Adams University which invested both in Photovoltaic technology and a biomass generator in its capital building programme producing up to 50% of the energy needed for the Halls of Residence and Student Union areas.
- Devonport Dockyard Limited (DML) for reducing gas usage by 13% since 2003 saving over 3,800 tonnes of CO2.
- Pirelli for investing around £3.9million over 10 years in new air compressor technology to dramatically reduce energy use.
- The Osnabrück Garrison has invested £800,000 on a Building Monitoring System and has invested jointly with the local council to create a Combined Heating and Power system with district heating, all powered by landfill gas.
The Carbon Trust, a private company set up by government to accelerate the transition to a low carbon economy runs the EEAS as a part of its overall service and product portfolio designed to help organisations become more energy efficient and cut carbon emissions. Information on the broad range of products and services including energy site surveys, interest-free loans, free self assessment tools and publications can be accessed via the website www.carbontrust.co.uk.
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