Energy

2009 Energy efficiency achievements

In 2009, we achieved US EPA Energy Star certification for offices in Albany, Dallas, and Dayton. To achieve the energy star in Albany, we worked with Grubb and Ellis Management Services on re-roofing the building, adding increased insulation and white reflective top sheets. There were additional upgrades to heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units and lighting. We also carried out lighting retrofits in New York and San Diego, and across the US rolled out 80 vending machine energy saving devices, replaced numerous chillers, and installed economisers.

At our Camden UK office there has been a 22% reduction in gas consumption and a 19% reduction in electricity use, helped by regular review of timer settings and better equipment management. In 2010, we will install gas economisers, overhaul the air conditioning units, and carry out a feasibility study on voltage optimisation, which if successful, will be rolled out to other sites.

Replacing halogen lamps with more efficient LED lighting and installing more daylight and motion sensors contributed to a 5% reduction in energy use at our Amsterdam building, our largest European location.

As well as our own energy reduction efforts, we have worked with utility companies to receive constant energy supply through energy demand response programmes – we gain utility credits for turning on uninterrupted power supply systems and disconnecting from the grid when demand is great.

We also consider environmental issues when choosing new offices. In relocating in Munich, Germany in 2009, we picked a site close to rail links to reduce commuting impacts. And we chose a new US site in St Louis with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification that will ensure lower operating costs.