Contractors and Facility Managers

Sustaining the path to a greener future

Improving the energy efficiency of existing building stock is not only vital in meeting environmental targets, but can also help businesses save money, improve the reliability of their power supply and operate more efficiently.

There is now a greater focus on ensuring facilities offer flexibility to adapt to changes in future circumstances, improved asset management and recognition of the need to upgrade premises to achieve greater energy efficiency and respond to changes in working practices.

> Energy Efficiency in electrical distribution

While there are a number of factors influencing the attitudes and opinions towards energy efficiency – most notably the increasing cost of energy and a rising social conscience – it is likely to be legislative drivers that have the greatest impact on changing behaviours and practices. Of the six greenhouse gases listed by Kyoto, one of the most significant by volume of emissions is carbon dioxide (CO2) and it is gas that is mainly emitted as a result of electricity generation and use, as well as direct thermal losses in, for example, heating.

Up to 50% of CO2 emissions attributable to residential and commercial buildings are from electricity consumption. Moreover, as domestic appliances, computers and entertainment systems proliferate; and other equipment such as air conditioning and ventilation systems increase in use, electricity consumption is rising at a higher rate than other energy usage.

Action on existing built environment will almost certainly become compulsory to meet targets fixed for the coming years.

> Read our Wiki Electrical Installation Guide

> Sustainability

Energetic and environmental responsibility lies at the core of Schneider Electric culture and strategy. Sustainable development is a real and essential opportunity for mobilisation, growth, and differentiation.

> View our Strategy and Sustainable Development report