As of the 1st of January 2021, a large number of HES terminals* started using sustainably generated electricity. With this step, CO₂ emissions of the HES Group will significantly be reduced and at the same time new investments in sustainable energy sources are stimulated.
The majority of the energy is sourced from the most sustainable option: European wind energy. Although it is not possible to determine whether electricity from the grid originates from a renewable or fossil source, the availability of renewable electricity on the grid can be influenced by the purchase of Guarantees of Origin (GoO). These GoO’s guarantee enable the traceability of renewable energy from the producer to the final consumer. Through this mechanism, HES ensures that a same amount of renewable electricity is generated and fed into the European grid as the amount consumed. Companies can therefore play an active role in increasing demand and supply of sustainable electricity.
CO₂ emissions for the entire HES Group cut by 50%
The purchase of renewable electricity is another step towards sustainability of the business operations of HES and reduces the total CO₂ emissions of the HES Group by approximately 50%**. However, this is not the first step that has been taken in this area. HES Botlek Tank Terminal and the French HES terminal Sosersid have been applying industrial symbiosis, using residual flows from neighboring companies. Besides many other initiatives that exist at various terminals, such as shore power, the installation of solar panels, the application of more energy-efficient machinery and the installation of LED lighting. As a result of the energy transition, HES invests heavily in the accommodation of a changing product portfolio.
For the first time in HES’ history, a Sustainability Manager was appointed. A long-term-roadmap is under development, addressing climate as well as other relevant sustainability topics.
Taking into account the interests of all stakeholders, HES will continue to focus on further steps towards sustainability. The ambition to make all terminals using renewable electricity is part of this process.
*EMO, EBS, HES Wilhelmshaven Tank Terminal, HES Botlek Tank Terminal, HES Botlek Tank terminal Bitumen and OVET
**based on projected energy consumption 2021, total HES Group; CO₂ emission with green electricity versus ‘business as usual’.