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Performance against our FY24 targets
Target #1: Reduce total energy (kWh) consumed by 15% per m2 (compared to FY19)
FY24 energy efficiency (kWh per m2) fell by 23% compared to FY19. Energy efficiency initiatives implemented during previous years within the largest EY UK office (located in London Bridge) continued to deliver significant savings, despite increased occupancy levels throughout the reporting period. The London Bridge site contributed 83% of total energy saved across the UK estate, with a further 16% coming from its second largest office at Canary Wharf.
Although the scope to introduce further measures to the London locations is limited, we remain focused on operating the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems at optimum efficiency. To support this, we have engaged a building management system specialist to optimise system setpoints, time schedules and deadband controls without compromising staff comfort. These actions were identified as part of our Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) Phase 3 submission, with plans for implementation during FY25.
Across the wider UK estate, we continue to monitor consumption in UK regional offices and where the remaining lease and business case permits, we actively pursue energy saving initiatives to contribute to our net zero targets. For example, we are looking to extend the lease term at our Luton office, then upgrade all existing fluorescent lighting with like-for-like LED fittings. In July 2024, we relocated our Cambridge site to state-of-the-art premises, and in August 2024 we will move our Leeds office to a low-energy office complex with specific energy targets determined and monitored via the landlord, both of which will deliver further energy savings in FY25.
Target #2: Continue to ensure 100% of EY UK’s energy consumption (electricity and gas) is backed by renewable certification
In FY24, 100% of EY UK’s energy consumption was backed by renewables certification. This was achieved through a combination of Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) certificates received via our UK Virtual Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), renewable energy supplied by our landlords and our continued purchase of renewable biogas.
Our PPA is also helping to decarbonise the UK energy sector, by adding more renewable electricity into the national grid than we consume.
*FY19 is the base year as this was the last reporting period of pre-pandemic (i.e. typical) operating conditions.