Energy management
See a full summary of our energy consumption data (PDF).
In typical operating conditions, energy consumption is our second largest source of greenhouse gas emissions (approximately 6% in FY23). We use a multi-faceted strategy to minimise energy consumed by our UK sites and related emissions. These measures comprise:
- Reducing consumption through investing in energy efficiency measures
- Employing a 10-year Virtual Power Purchase Agreement – learn more
- Purchasing renewable biogas
- Removing and offsetting more carbon that we emit, each year – learn more
Technologies we employ to minimise energy consumption in our buildings include:
- Building Energy Management Systems to optimise efficiency and provide virtual metering
- Thermostatic office temperature controls
- Upgraded chillers for comms rooms and set point controls
- LED lighting installations, digital lighting controls and zonal proximity infrared (PIR) sensors
- Upgrades to fan coil unit (FCU) and air handling unit (AHU) systems
- Replacement boiler plant and water heaters
- Energy efficient IT monitors with stand-by mode
- Lift destination control software
- Print devices, vending machines and other equipment utilising sleep mode during low demand periods
Our Technical Services team closely monitors energy consumption and conducts energy audits across our UK estate to identify opportunities for savings. When our offices undergo refurbishment or relocation, our technical standards and specifications dictate all building services and systems must align with current energy efficiency best practice.
Performance against our FY23 targets
Target #1: Reduce total energy (kWh) consumed by 12% per m2 (vs. FY19)
FY23 energy intensity (kWh per m2) fell by 20% compared to FY19. Although total energy consumption rose marginally in FY23 compared to the previous year (by 4%), previous investments in energy efficiency measures at the firm’s largest UK office (London Bridge) continue to deliver significant savings. Electricity consumption at this location has been further reduced by switching off all decorative perimeter lighting, with expected related savings of circa 47,000 kWh per year. The firm also continues to monitor energy consumption closely and remains focussed on running site engineering systems at maximum efficiency. To support this, the firm engaged a Building Management System specialist in FY23 to survey BMS controls, with recommendations for improvements due for evaluation in FY24.
Target #2: Identify opportunities to invest and support renewable energy markets whilst continuing to procure 100% of UK energy (electricity and gas) from renewable sources (where appropriate tariffs are available)
In FY23 100% of EY UK 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. Learn more.
*FY19 is the base year as this was the last reporting period of pre-pandemic (i.e. typical) operating conditions.
