Energy efficiency

Becoming more energy efficient is vital if we are to meet the challenges facing the energy industry today and into the future. A world in which we use less energy, more efficiently, is needed. National Grid has a central role to play in this by: demonstrating leadership with our own attitude to energy efficiency; facilitating the development of efficient new technologies and technology applications; and educating consumers about their energy use, helping them to make their future energy use more affordable.

Energy efficiency initiatives

Energy efficiency initiatives

We have been offering energy efficiency programmes and initiatives to help customers lower their energy bills and help the environment for more than 20 years in the US. A significant initiative in 2009 was our 3% Less challenge, which asks our customers to commit to using 3% less energy a year for the next 10 years. Our website allows customers to take part in free energy evaluations, learn ways to reduce their energy use and sign a pledge. We have also introduced a home energy programme, where participating customers receive a monthly energy report that compares their actual energy use to that of their neighbours.

In the UK, we have established Affordable Warmth Solutions, an independent community interest company that builds on the expertise and reputation of our former affordable warmth programme. The company brings together funding partners, local authorities and communities to provide efficient gas connections and new gas heating systems for the fuel poor. It has already delivered many schemes with more planned for 2010/11.

We believe that increased awareness and responsibility among energy users, together with a more collective and collaborative approach to meeting shared energy and environmental goals, marks a growing trend in the energy industry.

Smart metering

Smart metering

Smart meters are the next generation of gas and electricity meters, offering the ability for customers to manage their energy usage better. In addition, they will offer a platform to maximise the benefits of other new technologies, including: smart grid, home microgeneration and electric vehicles. In line with National Grid’s commitment to safeguard our global environment for future generations, OnStream has initiated an extensive transformation programme to deliver efficient customer service and dual fuel smart metering capabilities. In support of this, we have developed new smart electricity and gas meters with an innovative communications platform at their core. In conjunction with two energy suppliers, we intend to launch our field pilot in 2010, prior to full scale roll-out.

Reservoir Woods

Reservoir Woods

In May 2009, we opened the doors to Reservoir Woods, our new US headquarters. The office earned Platinum Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design rating for shell and core construction. The building incorporates over 40 environmental design and construction features including: a rainwater recycling system; exterior window shading to reduce cooling needs; and innovative interior lighting design. It not only shows National Grid’s environmental commitment, but going forward will also offer cost efficiencies in operation and maintenance, as well as a healthy and productive place to work.

44,000 new US gas heating customers

44,000 new US gas heating customers

One of the priorities for our US gas distribution business is to increase the number of consumers who use natural gas. For every new gas heating consumer there is an estimated saving of 36.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide over the 15 year life of the equipment – equivalent to removing 7 cars, each doing approximately 12,000 miles from US roads for a year. In 2009/10, National Grid connected more than 44,000 new gas heating customers.

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