In 2010-11 we continued our investment in better energy management. We comply with the Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) reporting requirements ahead of the imposition of charges for carbon emissions in 2012. We had planned to become Carbon Trust Accredited as part of our CRC preparation. However, since the government changed the CRC’s original system, we are reviewing our position on this and comparing with other environmental certification schemes.
In 2010-11 our energy usage decreased. Electricity reduced at our head offices, stores and distribution centres by an average of 1%, this equates to 917 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Our gas consumption also decreased by an average of 7% or 1340 tonnes of CO2.
Since 2008 we have reduced our carbon emissions by over 16,000 tonnes through reductions in electricity and gas usage. 2008-9 saw the most energy savings due to our work to prepare for the government’s Carbon Reduction Commitment and the installation of smart meters and high efficiency lamps.
| 2008-09 | 2009-10 | 2010-11 |
|---|---|---|
| 10,720 | 3,091 | 2,257 |
Tonnes of CO2 emissions through energy reductions since 2008
In 2010-11, we renewed our contract with Smartest Energy. This means that approximately 70% of our electricity will be obtained from renewable sources for two years.
In 2010-11 we carried out energy audits at BHS stores supported by our energy consultants and the Carbon Trust, focusing on lighting, air conditioning and boilers. Our Purchasing team is working closely with colleagues from Store Design and Maintenance to analyse the results of these audits, making recommendations about how BHS stores can become more energy efficient.
In Spring/Summer 2011 we began a pilot via selected Evans stores to understand the effects of keeping entrances to stores closed during trading hours. Our aim is to compare energy saved with any impact on sales. We are monitoring performance and will report back on next steps.
Other initiatives across both Arcadia and BHS include:
- introducing energy management software to stores;
- installing SMART gas and energy meters; and
- ensuring we introduce the most energy efficient lamps available for both new stores and retrospective fits on existing stores.
Each store receives a monthly consumption report, showing energy usage during opening and closing time. This can be compared with the previous month and the same month the previous year, allowing store managers to identify any peaks in usage for further investigation.
Energy management continues as a focus for our Distribution Centres (DCs). Sub-meter installation will be a key tool, allowing us to manage energy by specific area within a DC. A business case will be finalised for the installation of Building Management Systems to maximise energy efficiency in these large spaces.
