Clean energies; such as solar; wind; hydro and geothermal; are a renewable and inexhaustible source. They do not emit greenhouse gases or other pollutants; so their environmental impact is lower. In recent years; renewable energies have surpassed traditional fossil fuel-based energies in the European Union.
According to the Spanish Network for the Global Compact; 80% of companies are committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the 2030 Agenda; yet only 24% of them have defined and established specific; measurable agreements. Therefore; we would like to highlight some actions that companies should take into account to drive sustainable transformation.
- Establish; record and monitor your carbon footprint in order to gradually reduce it: data collection and analysis of the three types of emissions is essential.
- Digitise control and optimise energy consumption: install a consumption analyser at the main supply points; analyze data and propose improvements in consumption habits.
- Use the potential of renewable generation: self-consumption with or without storage is essential to make the most of it; as is the purchase of energy from third parties with guarantees of renewable origin.
- Improve process efficiency: conduct an energy audit to analyze and detect inefficient consumption and implement measures.
More and more sustainable companies are committing to purchasing and self-generating clean energy; thereby reducing their energy dependence on polluting sources. Companies that have implemented the Sustainable Development Goals report numerous benefits; 69% say their reputation and image have improved; and 82% say their resilience has increased.
Over the next ten years; nearly 1 million "green jobs" related to sustainable innovation and renewable energy will be created; according to data published by the International Labour Organization (ILO); and it is estimated that by 2050; global energy consumption will have doubled.
"Renewable energies are the ideal solution for many companies; as they provide independence; a continuous and reliable supply; generate profits and are more environmentally friendly; as well as being cheaper. The evaluation of self-consumption systems is another way to generate savings in the company's energy bill;" says Fernando Vázquez; consulting partner and co-area developer at ERA Group. "Although the initial investment is large; it is becoming increasingly quicker to recoup it and enjoy the benefits of renewables."
