Barclays is investing in improving energy efficiency throughout the business. The benefits are two-fold: reducing wasted energy not only yields environmental benefits – it also results in cost savings through reduced energy use.

Innovative technology

The powerPerfector device optimises the energy supplied to a building, reducing consumption and in turn reducing carbon emissions. Following a successful pilot scheme in 2008 where the technology was introduced to five high street branches, in 2009 the trial was extended to nine branches of Barclays.

Results demonstrated an average energy saving of 13 per cent per site. Annually this equates to 166 tonnes of carbon dioxide and cost savings of more than £30,000 across the branches.

Proposals to introduce powerPerfectors at 30 further Barclays sites are in consideration for 2010.

As well as its environmental benefits, the powerPerfector also helps prolong the life of electrical equipment, by protecting it from energy surges.

Absa Capital in South Africa

Absa Capital, affiliated with Barclays Capital, moved into its new headquarters at Sandton Court, Johannesburg in 2008. The building exceeds South Africa’s environmental standards, including features such as high efficiency lighting with motion detectors to cut unnecessary use, rainwater harvesting facilities to water the grounds, and solar-powered heating. Overall, the complex is 34.2 per cent more energy efficient than a traditional office.

Absa Energy Centre

Absa in Johannesburg has built an energy centre which will generate electricity from gas. The centre, which will operate from 2010, will power eight buildings during business hours. As well as providing greater energy security, the centre will also reduce CO2 emissions by 19,000 tonnes annually.