GRI 102-11, GRI 308-1, GRI 308-2, GRI Sector disclosure Biodiversity
50Hertz is a pioneer in the integration of renewable energy into the electricity system: in 2021, an annual average of 56.1% of electricity consumption in the 50Hertz grid area was covered by renewable energy. This was less than the figure for 2020 (which was 62%), due to several factors, including an increase in power consumption across the 50Hertz grid and a lower wind farm output.
Through our initiative “100 by 2032: new energy for a strong economy”, we have set ourselves an ambitious goal. In order to ensure that 100% of the energy demand across our grid area is covered by renewable energy by 2032, the development of the extra-high-voltage grid is essential. It is with this goal in mind that we seek to ensure that 50Hertz’s assets and activities have the lowest impact possible on people and natural habitats. Following the NOVA (Netzoptimierung vor Ausbau) principle, which states that the grid should be optimised and enhanced before it is expanded, is therefore self-evident for 50Hertz. In concrete terms, this means that 50Hertz only builds new lines if all other options aimed at increasing grid capacity have been exhausted. Another step towards the consistent reduction of our impact on the natural environmental is the development of the compactLine pylon design. The latter is characterised by lower mast heights, narrower lines and a full-wall mast with a smaller circumference. Commitments to ecological and social sustainability, environmental and climate protection and resource conservation are integral parts of our corporate strategy. As part of the Group’s ActNow programme, 50Hertz and Elia have set themselves clear ambitions related to climate protection, biodiversity and the eco-design of their substations. In 2021, a project focusing on circularity in procurement was launched. Moreover, an internal carbon price (IPC) was introduced as an additional parameter which needs to be considered in the procurement process (see also Link_Supplier) The planning, operation and environmentally friendly conversion and expansion of our transmission grid in the north and east of Germany are based on national and European framework conditions and regulations. New requirements were outlined in a number of legal provisions and changes to these are constantly monitored. The requirements are included in the company’s internal regulations. Deviations are systematically analysed and measures for improvement are determined. The existing environmental management system is currently being aligned with the internationally recognised ISO 14001 in order to increase its level of maturity. Certification is planned for 2022.
50Hertz consistently and actively works on the continuous improvement of its environmental performance, energy performance and management systems. This development of environmental protection and energy management includes raising staff awareness about such issues and actively involving staff to act in an environmentally conscious and energy-efficient manner. To this end, environmentally relevant briefings are held annually or on an ad hoc basis in regional centres as well as in central and supporting teams, such as those which work in purchasing or facility management. Staff members dealing with waste, water protection and hazardous goods are all trained in these areas. In 2021, environmental and nature conservation specialists were given training on issues relating to nature conservation during maintenance and repair work. Likewise, numerous employees were trained in the use of separator systems. The Agreement on Quality Assurance on Construction Sites is included in new contracts with suppliers. It includes, among other things, a precautionary principle related to environmental protection. Compliance with this agreement is regularly checked as part of IT-supported construction inspections. In the year under review, 538 construction inspections were carried out.