Huge uptake for UK Power Networks’ green Code of Conduct
Partners have answered the call from UK Power Networks to drive down emissions, with 80% suppliers committed to the electricity firm’s new Code of Conduct.
Recognising the role of the supply chain in the reducing carbon emissions from the energy industry, UK Power Networks introduced the new code on the company’s Supply Chain Day in March this year. More than 135 suppliers (80% of suppliers, by spend) have committed to the Code within the first few months. This is more than treble the company’s 2023 target of 25%, with more suppliers due to sign up through the rest of the year.
The Code, which will be reported on annually to assess what difference it is making to the environment, places sustainability front-and-centre asking suppliers to demonstrate yearly carbon emissions reductions while working for UK Power Networks. It includes mandatory requirements such as providing employees with appropriate training and safety gear, and focus areas ranging from aligning policies and practices with UN Sustainable Development Goals to reducing fuel use by adopting electric vehicles.
The new Code comes as part of the company’s commitments in its five-year plan from 2023-2028. UK Power Networks has an objective to reduce carbon within the supply chain by 25% from the company’s 2018 baseline in line with the company’s verified Science Based Target.
Roger Waring, head of Procurement and Income Management at UK Power Networks, said: “We are delighted with such a positive response from our supply chain to this groundbreaking supplier Code of Conduct.
“Our supply chain is critical in ensuring that UK Power Networks can continue to perform at its best to deliver upon its objectives, therefore, alignment in terms of corporate behaviours and aspirations is really important.”
Earlier adopters can see the benefits. Martin Atkins, contract director for Morrison Energy Services, said: “We are delighted to partner with UK Power Networks on its new industry-leading supply chain Code of Conduct. It reflects our strong sense of purpose as a positive force for change, ensuring an approach which is sustainable, responsible and respectful to the environment and communities in which we work.
"Collaboration is essential to meet Net Zero targets and we are pleased to work with UK Power Networks on reducing emissions, while focusing on safety and ensuring our highest standard working practices are upheld, supporting them in the delivery of their capital programme and connections activities.”
Sam Atherton, chief commercial officer of Network Plus, said: “UK Power Networks’ supplier Code of Conduct has been a welcome addition, ensuring all members of the supply chain are aligned in their commitment to ethical and responsible operations.
“We are proud of the role that we play in UK Power Networks’ communities, maintaining essential services and allowing households and business to shine. The Code of Conduct helps ensure that we maximise our collective impact in these areas, providing practical guidance and commitments that align perfectly with our own vision, values and sustainability objectives.”
Mark Sprawson, director at EA Technology, said: “Supporting the drive to Net Zero is core to EA Technology’s mission. We were therefore keen to demonstrate our commitment through signing up to the Code of Conduct and believe it represents a genuine statement of intent from both UK Power Networks, and the electricity distribution sector as a whole, to strive to be an enabler of the Net Zero transition.
“We look forward to working closely with UK Power Networks to help deliver on the UK's climate ambitions and to ensure a just transition.”
Published: 27/09/23
