Energy Consumption

We have a responsible approach to our energy procurement strategy and aim to purchase electricity from renewable sources where possible. Energy contracts are regularly reviewed and tendered on an annual basis by our consultants in order to secure the best prices.

Our Energy Manager is engaging with those tenants who consume the most energy to discuss how energy efficiencies can be achieved.

During the year to 31 March 2010 over 60% of electricity supplies were purchased on green tariffs with electricity generated from renewable sources such as wind farms and hydroelectric plants.

In the year to 31 March 2009 we achieved an 8% decrease in energy consumption and 32% of electricity consumed was purchased on green tariffs, as a result there was a 27% decrease in carbon emissions.

We are producing Energy Action Plans for our managed properties which include recommendations from Energy Performance Certificates and Air Conditioning Inspections; this highlights where opportunities for improving the energy performance can be undertaken during day to day management, refurbishment or development.

The Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme (CRCEES) is a new carbon trading scheme. Participating organisations will be required to report their carbon emissions on an annual basis and purchase carbon allowances. The Company will not be required to participate in the first phase of this scheme starting on 1 April 2010. However we continue to monitor our energy consumption in relation to the legislation and preparing for our likely inclusion in the second phase of the scheme when it will be widened to more organisations.

Energy consumption data

Water usage

We have carried out water audits on a representative sample of properties to investigate opportunities for improving water use efficiency and installing rainwater harvesting systems. Issues identified are included within our Sustainability Framework which is used by internal and external project teams for our refurbishment and development programme.

In the year to 31 March 2009 we measured a 7% decrease in water consumption.

Link to pdf of water consumption data

Link to pdf of BV verification statement