NET ZERO… ACTIONS, NOT JUST WORDS

Net Zero is simply being in a state of adding no carbon to the atmosphere. In the built environment this means reducing carbon emissions through reduction of energy consumption, sustainable on site generation, procuring energy from sustainable sources and, where it is not possible to totally eliminate carbon emissions, the use of carbon offsetting.

We have a collective moral obligation to reduce carbon emissions and prevent an irreversible global warming rise of 1.50C, in line with recommended targets, to protect and preserve the environment for future generations. 33% of the UKs largest companies have now committed to Net Zero goals, while only 12% of SMEs have adopted this responsible approach. As larger companies commit to Net Zero they will require their supply chain to adopt the same levels of corporate responsibility. Can you afford not to?

The four steps to Net Zero are detailed below in order of priority, and all stages are supported and implemented by E2 Services through our Net Zero Toolbox.

Reduce & Control Energy Consumption

  • Detailed Net Zero energy site surveys & reports
  • Identification and monitoring of mandatory Energy Compliance requirements
  • Identification of grants and finance to support Net Zero
  • Identification and monitoring of energy use through installation of intelligent energy metering systems and analytical software systems
  • Optimisation of the building operation through either reconfiguring existing Building Management Systems (BMS) software, or via system upgrades
  • Improved energy focussed BMS maintenance services
  • Lifecycle replacement of existing plant or lighting to energy efficient alternatives
  • Ongoing performance measurement via our in-houe Bureau

Onsite Generation

Energy is increasingly being generated where it is required, in order to mitigate losses and high costs associated with transmitting energy across the grid. With our extensive experience in the energy industry, E2 can assist in the design, installation, commissioning and management of onsite generation. Our services include:

  • Onsite generation feasibility studies
  • System design
  • Project management
  • Ongoing management services

 

Green Energy Procurement

Where onsite generation is unable to fulfill the total demand for a site, or if the site is not suitable for onsite generation, procurement of a green energy source is the next step. This may be via two routes:

POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENTS (PPA)

Buying direct from the generator e.g. the owner of a PV or wind farm with many benefits including price certainty through negotiation of longer contract terms at agreed price points. Engaging in PPA's also helps accelerate the transition to renewables, as it provides the developers with the commitment to further invest in renewable projects.

GREEN PROCUREMENT

If you don't have the ability to sign into a long term PPA contract at present, there are a wide variety of deals available for buying your energy from a certified green source from one of the main suppliers.

E2’s internal energy brokerage team can arrange PPAs to suit your company’s requirements and negotiate beneficial green procurement contracts with all of the main suppliers in the UK, through bulk buying initiatives

Offset Carbon Emissions

Carbon offsetting is helpful, where emissions either cannot be reduced or energy cannot be generated from renewable sources. Whilst this is not a permanent solution, it is an important stepping stone to becoming Net Zero.

As detailed in the CCC report: “Minimise offsets, phase them out, and ensure only permanent emissions removals remain”