Understanding the EEOS and NREC

The EEOS, from the Energy Efficiency Directive (EU/2023/1791), sets ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% compared to 1990 levels by 2030. Under this scheme, energy suppliers selling over 400 GWh annually, known as Obligated Parties (OPs), are required to support energy efficiency projects in businesses throughout Ireland. The NREC works on a simple yet effective principle: for every unit of energy saved through these projects, OPs earn energy credits towards their targets. This not only helps Ireland meet its national and European energy saving goals but also provides tangible benefits to businesses.

Key Parties Involved in the Scheme

Key Supports OP’s Can Support Business and Local Bodies.

OPs can provide both technical and financial support to contribute to energy efficiency projects.

• Monetary contributions per kWh saved
• Measurement and verification services
• Project management and coordination
• Quality assurance services
• Tender evaluation support
• Technical support

Benefits for Irish Businesses

• Financial support: OPs provide direct monetary contributions towards energy efficiency projects, reducing initial investment barriers.
• Technical expertise: Certified energy practitioners assist with energy audits, implementing energy management systems, and identifying efficiency opportunities.
• Cost reduction: Improved energy efficiency leads to lower operational costs, enhancing business competitiveness.
• Environmental impact: By reducing energy consumption, businesses actively contribute to Ireland’s climate goals.

Potential Energy Efficiency Upgrade Opportunities

• Lighting upgrades: LED lighting, smart lighting controls
• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems: high-efficiency boilers and furnaces, heat pumps, smart thermostats
• Building insulation and envelope improvements: wall and roof insulation
• Energy management systems: building energy management systems, energy monitoring
• Appliance upgrades: energy-efficient appliances, smart appliances
• Industrial process improvements: variable speed drives, compressed air system upgrades

Impact of EEOS on Cross Sector Energy Upgrades

SEAI conducted an analysis of the percentage of savings with respect to the energy upgrades in 2022. The results are as below:

Figure 1: 2022 Savings achieved from different Energy Upgrades from SEAI website

The Flogas NREC Process

Author: Vinith Gerald

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Why Choose Flogas for Your EV Charging Needs?

At Flogas, we are committed to supporting sustainability and helping businesses pave the way for a cleaner future. Our EV Charging Solutions not only meet your current needs but also anticipate future demands, ensuring your business stays ahead of the curve.

Here’s how we can power up your business:

Fleet and Workplace Charging: Efficient, Expert, and Reliable

Providing reliable EV charging options at the workplace has never been easier. Our services include:

• Employee and Workplace EV Charging: Seamlessly integrate EV charging stations into your business premises, making it convenient for employees to charge during work hours.
• Expert Advice: Receive guidance on the best charging options tailored to your business needs.
• Professional Installation: Experience smooth installation of your EV charging network, allowing you to focus on running your business.
• Comprehensive Maintenance: Rest easy knowing that your EV charging units are maintained to the highest standards, ensuring longevity and reliability.
• Expense Management: Streamline business expenses with our efficient cost allocation system.
• Discounted Tariffs: Offer employees discounted electricity tariffs for home charging, adding extra value.
• Leaver and Starter Management: Easily manage charging access for new hires and deactivate it for leavers, optimizing resources.

The Flogas Advantage: A Fully Managed, Nationwide Network

Choosing Flogas offers numerous benefits that set us apart in the EV charging landscape:

• Reduced Expense Claims: Lower installation costs and improved financial management.
• Streamlined Grant Applications: Assistance in securing grants with funds paid directly to your business, easing financial burdens.
• Fully Managed Network: Minimize downtime with a fully managed and maintained EV network, ensuring smooth operations.
• Nationwide Network Access: Centralised reporting and access to a nationwide charging network.
• High Stability: Enjoy a 98% charging stability, surpassing the 85% market average, ensuring uninterrupted business operations.
• Independent Reporting: Benefit from transparent, independent expense reporting for easy financial oversight.
• Remote Access: Manage your network remotely, ensuring former employees are promptly removed from the system.
• Easy Onboarding: Effortlessly integrate new hires through our app-based onboarding process.
• Revenue Opportunities: Generate additional income by offering commercial EV charging services.
• Avoid Bottlenecks: Enable advance bookings to ensure employees have access to charging stations without waiting.

Monetize Your Public Car Park

Transform your business’s parking facilities into a sustainable revenue stream with our Public Car Park Monetization services:

• New Revenue Stream: Capitalise on fast EV charging, turning your car park into a profit center.
• App-Based Charging: Provide an easy, app-based charging experience for customers, enhancing satisfaction.
• Sustainability Hub: Position your car park as an eco-friendly hub, aligning your brand with sustainability and attracting like-minded customers.

Get Started with Flogas

Whether supporting your employees with convenient charging options or exploring new revenue streams, Flogas has the expertise and infrastructure to meet your needs. Let’s drive sustainability forward—one charge at a time.

Interested in learning more? Contact us today at (01) 884 9400 or email breanainn.drummond@flogas.ie  to discuss how we can power your business into the future.

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Solar for large businesses

Our ‘Solar Solution’ enables businesses to embrace sustainability by harnessing the potential of rooftop or land mounted Solar PV Panels. You not only generate clean energy from your building but also with expected return on investment within 3-5 years, companies are realising both the cost and CO2 savings hitting their bottom line within 12 months of installation of the panels.

Turnkey solution for clean energy transition

Flogas Enterprise Solar represents a comprehensive turnkey Solar PV solution tailored for the needs companies that use large amounts of energy for their businesses. Our offering covers everything, from the installation of solar panels to the ongoing maintenance, ensuring a hassle-free experience tailored to your business goals.

Why Flogas Enterprise as your solar partner?

• Proven Expertise: Trust in our track record of delivering successful Solar PV installations, underpinned by our unwavering expertise in the field.
• Simplified Process: As your single point of contact, Flogas Enterprise streamlines the entire project, guaranteeing a smooth and efficient implementation.
• Fully Serviced Solution: Enjoy the benefits of a fully serviced Solar PV solution. We provide Tier 1 hardware akin to Solar PV farms, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

Benefits of Flogas Enterprise Solar for large businesses

• Significant Carbon Footprint Reduction: By embracing solar panels, you reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, leading to a substantial decrease in your company’s carbon footprint and a transition to a more sustainable energy source.
• Energy Savings: Utilise the energy produced on-site, reducing your exposure to peak-time energy costs, and saving on your energy bills.
• Total Turnkey Project Management: Let us take care of everything, from managing the entire process to installing your new solar panels, all while working around your business’s timeline.
• Up to 5 Years Warranty: Enjoy peace of mind with up to 5 years of comprehensive on-site warranty on panels and 12 years on inverters.
• Remote, active monitoring: We also offer remote monitoring for fault detection and a prompt emergency response within 48 hours.

What to Expect from Flogas Enterprise Solar:

• We conduct a comprehensive audit of your premises to assess available power and provide professional recommendations on suitable panel types.
• We source high-quality Solar PV panels and manage the complete installation process, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
• Our dedicated team will regularly maintain and monitor your Solar Panels, ensuring they operate at peak efficiency.
• We oversee all interactions with the ESBN (Electricity Supply Board Network), simplifying the process for you.
• Flogas Enterprise handle all aspects of warranty and insurance management.

To take the next step on your journey toward a greener future, request a call-back with the solar team by emailing marketingfes@flogas.ie today to discover how Solar PV Panels can transform your business premises.

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As Europe braces itself for another winter, reminiscent of the challenges faced last year, the continent is grappling with a unique set of circumstances that could shape the gas landscape in 2024. Despite an early cold snap in January, a departure from the aggressive price spikes of the previous year suggests a new normalcy. Here are some key themes that may define the European gas market in 2024:

EU Gas Hub Volatility: Volatility remains a constant companion in a dynamic economic landscape, often indicative of market uncertainties. In the aftermath of a substantial reduction in Russian gas flows, the global gas market has experienced a reorientation from East to West. While prices have moderated, instances like the Australian LNG strikes and the Israel-Gaza conflict emphasise that Europe is no longer ringfenced by Gazprom. In 2024, while prices may be lower, volatility is expected to persist, signalling the reality of a post-Russian gas era.

Ukraine Transit Agreement Expiration: The expiration of the Ukraine transit agreement adds a layer of complexity to Europe’s gas dynamics. The EU’s previous eleventh-hour gas deal between Ukraine and Russia feels like a recent memory, yet the prospects for a renewed agreement appear uncertain. Despite political pressures from certain EU member states to engage in negotiations with Russia’s Gazprom, Kyiv may choose not to extend the agreement. The current political situation makes it increasingly unlikely for the EU, Ukraine, and Russia to broker a new deal, raising questions about the future of Russian gas transit through Ukraine.

Structural Changes in Gas Flows: The structural changes in global gas flows, particularly the shift from East to West, continue to reshape energy markets. The reduction in Russian gas flows has prompted a diversification of gas sources for Europe. This structural transformation has contributed to the moderation of prices, but it also underscores the vulnerability of energy markets to geopolitical events. Market participants need to navigate the evolving landscape of gas supply and demand patterns, considering the impact of unforeseen global events on European energy security.

Record High Storage Fill and Subdued Demand: Contrary to the previous year, Europe is experiencing a retreat in gas prices despite an early cold snap and the anticipation of an extended heating season. Record high storage fill and subdued demand have played a role in mitigating price volatility. Market participants must closely monitor storage levels and demand patterns to gauge the resilience of the European gas market against external shocks.

2024 presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for participants in the European gas market. The departure from the reliance on Russian gas brings about a new era characterised by lower prices but sustained volatility. The expiration of the Ukraine transit agreement and ongoing geopolitical tensions further contribute to the uncertainty. Navigating this landscape requires a keen understanding of global gas flows, storage dynamics, and the geopolitical factors influencing European energy security.

* https://www.icis.com/explore/commodities/energy/?intcmp=commodities-natural-gas_energy

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Greenhouse gas emissions from transportation in Ireland primarily comes from burning fossil fuel for cars, trucks, ships, trains, and planes. Ireland’s transportation sector stood as a significant contributor representing the second-largest source of GHG emissions in Ireland with over 11.6 million tonnes of GHGs emitted in 2022, accounting for 19.1% of total emissions.

In recent years, Ireland has begun to embrace sustainable solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in its transportation sector.

One solution gaining traction is BioCNG (compressed Biomethane), often referred to as ‘renewable natural gas’ when used as a transportation fuel. This sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels like diesel has not only caught the attention of Ireland but also several other countries as a promising means to combat climate change.

Biomethane is noted for its potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions associated with transportation. This alternative renewable fuel can power a variety of vehicles, from buses, trucks to HGVs, offering a clear path towards decarbonising the transport sector.

The sustainability of biomethane lies in its production process. It is often derived from organic waste sources, such as slurry, sludge, and food waste. These materials are transformed into biogas through a controlled process. This biogas, rich in methane, is then meticulously purified and upgraded to meet biomethane quality standards before serving its purpose as a renewable fuel. Biomethane not only reduces the methane emissions from agricultural waste but also repurposes it in an environmentally friendly way.

In Ireland, concerted efforts are underway to establish a network of BioCNG refuelling stations, with a particular focus on accommodating heavy-duty vehicles. BioCNG produced from biomethane is currently available for heavy goods vehicles (HGV) at Circle K’s forecourts in Ballysimon Road Limerick, Cashel, Clonshaugh and Dublin Port. The biomethane is considered to be a renewable fuel under the Irish Biofuel Obligation Scheme and can even have negative well-to-wheel emissions when it is produced from certain agricultural waste feedstocks. Gas Networks Ireland tracks the allocation of biomethane from the point of injection into the grid to the point of withdrawal at the Circle K refuelling stations. This infrastructure is making biomethane readily accessible, encouraging its adoption across Ireland.

Biomethane as a transport fuel not only addresses climate concerns but also contributes to improved air quality. Its combustion produces lower levels of pollutants compared to conventional fossil fuels, further enhancing the health and well-being of the Irish population. It showcases the circular economy to the highest standard by avoiding climate-harming methane emissions from agricultural waste, diversifying income sources for rural farmers, and reducing fossil fuel use in transport!

Public and private sector partnerships and investments are pivotal in advancing the adoption of biomethane further in transportation. Collaborations between government bodies, energy companies, and transport operators must persist and intensify to expedite the growth of this promising transitional fuel. By working together, Ireland can leverage the potential of biomethane to create a more sustainable and environmentally responsible transportation landscape.

If you would like to learn more about BioCNG for both heat or transport contact marketingfes@flogas.ie.

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Solar for large businesses

Our ‘Solar’ solution enables businesses to embrace sustainability by harnessing the potential of rooftop Solar PV Panels. You not only generate clean energy from your building but also pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future while reducing your energy bills and carbon footprint.

Turnkey solution for clean energy transition

Flogas Enterprise Solar represents a comprehensive turnkey Solar PV solution tailored for the needs of Industrial and Commercial businesses. Our offering covers everything, from the installation of solar panels to the ongoing maintenance, ensuring a hassle-free experience tailored to your business goals.

Why Flogas Enterprise as your solar partner?

• Proven Expertise: Trust in our track record of delivering successful Solar PV installations, underpinned by our unwavering expertise in the field.
• Simplified Process: As your single point of contact, Flogas Enterprise streamlines the entire project, guaranteeing a smooth and efficient implementation.
• Fully Serviced Solution: Enjoy the benefits of a fully serviced Solar PV solution. We provide Tier 1 hardware akin to Solar PV farms, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

Benefits of Flogas Enterprise Solar for large businesses

• Significant Carbon Footprint Reduction: By embracing solar panels, you reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, leading to a substantial decrease in your company’s carbon footprint and a transition to a more sustainable energy source.
• Energy Savings: Utilise the energy produced on-site, reducing your exposure to peak-time energy costs, and saving on your energy bills.
• Total Turnkey Project Management: Let us take care of everything, from managing the entire process to installing your new solar panels, all while working around your business’s timeline.
• Up to 5 Years Warranty: Enjoy peace of mind with up to 5 years of comprehensive on-site warranty on panels and 12 years on inverters.
• Remote, active monitoring: We also offer remote monitoring for fault detection and a prompt emergency response within 48 hours.

What to Expect from Flogas Enterprise Solar:

• We conduct a comprehensive audit of your premises to assess available power and provide professional recommendations on suitable panel types.
• We source high-quality Solar PV panels and manage the complete installation process, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
• Our dedicated team will regularly maintain and monitor your Solar Panels, ensuring they operate at peak efficiency.
• We oversee all interactions with the ESBN (Electricity Supply Board Network), simplifying the process for you.
• Flogas Enterprise handle all aspects of warranty and insurance management.

Why not take the first step towards a more sustainable future by contacting Flogas Enterprise at marketingfes@flogas.ie today to discover how Solar PV Panels can transform your business premises.

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Every year, an astonishing amount of food is wasted globally, contributing to environmental problems and economic losses:

• The United States discards a staggering 60.3 million tonnes of food annually
• The European Union isn’t far behind with an estimated 59 million tonnes of wasted food
• In Ireland approximately 800,000 tonnes of food waste is generated in Ireland each year

To combat this issue, jurisdictions worldwide are taking steps to ban organic materials from landfills and encourage their collection through green bin programmers.

Most EU member countries have already implemented food waste diversion plans, and by 2024, all members will be required to introduce separate collection programmes for green and kitchen wastes.

Rising Biogas Facilities

European markets for food waste digestion including the United Kingdom with has 87 sites, Spain with 53 sites, Italy with 47 sites and Germany with 218 sites and in Ireland there are less than 20 Anaerobic Digestion plants with only two that are gas-to-grid producing biomethane, which is a more complex but more sustainable end point and the remaining 18 are only gas-to-power, they make biogas but then put it through a CHP for electricity. There are currently plans in place in Ireland to build 130 anaerobic digestion biomethane plants in rural Ireland by 2030.

In Ireland the EPA recently launched a new Food Waste Charter, calling on all businesses and State Agencies operating across the food supply chain in Ireland to sign up and commit to reducing food waste. Building on the success of the first charter – which launched in 2017 and focused on the grocery retail sector—this new, more ambitious Charter, expands the call to action to every organisation in Ireland’s food supply chain.

Businesses signing up to the Food Waste Charter voluntarily commit to measure their food waste, set targets and take action to reduce food waste, and to report annually on progress, With almost 800,000 tonnes of food waste generated in Ireland annually, meeting Ireland’s commitment to halve food waste by 2030 is very challenging,

The potential for harnessing biogas and biomethane from food waste is enormous, with a growing number of initiatives and projects aimed at reducing food waste and promoting sustainable energy production. As these efforts continue to expand globally, the biogas and biomethane market is expected to thrive, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly  future.

If you would like to know more about Biomethane for your buisness contact marketfes@flogas.ie.

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The new European ESG directive

From 2024, the reporting on ESG by large and other listed companies will become mandatory under the new EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting directive.

Here, we focus on the importance of the “E” in ESG and outline why it is fundamental to an organisation’s overall sustainability efforts.

ESG Reporting: evaluating and addressing factors

Environmental factors in ESG include an organisation’s impact on the natural environment. This includes assessing the organisation’s carbon emissions, energy consumption, waste management, water usage, biodiversity preservation, and adherence to environmental regulations. Evaluating and addressing these factors are vital for sustainable business practices.

Here are several key reasons why environmental factors are crucial in ESG reporting:

Climate Change

Addressing climate change is a pressing global challenge. We all must take responsibility for their carbon emissions and actively work towards reducing their environmental impact. Transitioning to cleaner energy sources, implementing energy-efficient practices, and adopting sustainable production methods are vital steps towards mitigating climate change.

Resource Conservation

Environmental factors encompass efficient resource utilisation, such as minimising food waste, water consumption, and adopting circular economy principles. By implementing resource conservation measures, organisations can reduce their ecological footprint, optimise operational costs, and contribute to the preservation of natural resources for future generations. 

Environmental Consciousness

Organisations that prioritise environmental sustainability demonstrate their commitment to being responsible businesses of the planet. This includes preserving biodiversity, protecting ecosystems, and minimising pollution. Such initiatives not only benefit the environment but also enhance the organisation’s reputation and attract environmentally conscious stakeholders.

ESG Reporting and Regulatory Compliance

Environmental regulations are becoming increasingly stringent worldwide. Organisations that fail to comply with these regulations face legal and reputational risks. By incorporating environmental factors into their ESG strategies, organisations can proactively ensure compliance, avoid penalties, and maintain a positive relationship with regulatory authorities.

Achieving Environmental Excellence

To effectively address environmental factors within an ESG framework, organisations can undertake several measures:

• Setting Clear Environmental Goals: Establishing ambitious and measurable environmental targets helps guide an organisation’s sustainability efforts. These goals should encompass reducing emissions, improving resource efficiency, and enhancing environmental performance indicators relevant to the organisation’s industry.
• Embracing Renewable Energy: Transitioning to renewable energy sources is a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and fostering environmental sustainability. Organisations can explore options such as solar, wind, or geothermal energy to power their operations.
• Implementing Environmental Management Systems: Adopting environmental management systems, such as ISO 50001, enables organisations to identify and manage environmental risks, track progress towards environmental goals, and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging stakeholders, including employees, customers, investors, and communities, in environmental initiatives fosters a sense of shared responsibility. Organisations can actively seek feedback, involve stakeholders in decision-making processes, and communicate their environmental efforts transparently.

In conclusion, the “E” in ESG is fundamental when evaluating an organisation’s sustainability and social impact. Environmental factors play a critical role in shaping an organisation’s long-term success, reputation, and overall contribution to a sustainable future.

By addressing environmental challenges, setting clear goals, embracing renewable energy, and engaging stakeholders, organisations can demonstrate their commitment to environmental consciousness while reaping the benefits of increased value and positive societal impact.

Find out more about our commercial sustainability services and how Flogas Enterprise  can help your organisation meet it’s ESG requirements.

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In this ever-changing world we all live in; how a business develops and grows is more important now in so many areas. What worked in the past will not work now or in the future. We are all evolving and becoming very conscious of strengthening and protecting our people and our planet. The need for companies to step up and lead with purpose and social responsibility has never been more important, which is why organisations are putting the environment, social and governance (ESG) framework at the heart of everything they do.

ESG is more than just ticking boxes

ESG is a framework that helps customers, employees, and stakeholders understand how a company manages risks and opportunities around sustainability issues. The ESG framework has evolved from other historical movements that focused on health & safety issues and pollution reduction.

The three Steps of the ESG framework are:

1. Environmental Impact

When it comes to the environmental impact, employees, customers and stakeholders are interested in understanding how a company’s operations may impact the environment. This can include things like, carbon emissions, air & water pollution, green energy initiatives and waste management. Companies that reduce their environmental impact are seen as more sustainable and are therefore more attractive to employees, customers, and stakeholders.

2. Social Responsibility

The social step of ESG assesses how a company treats its employees, customers, suppliers, community members and other stakeholders. This includes things like diversity & inclusion, human rights, and fair working practices. Socially responsible companies are always more attractive to employees, customers and stakeholders.

3. Governance

The governance step of ESG assesses a company’s internal policies itself. This includes things like board diversity, company leadership & management, executive compensation and shareholder rights. Employees, customers and stakeholders who are interested in ESG often look for companies that perform well across all three steps.

Credible ESG initiatives are highly specific to a business’s unique circumstances. There is no one-size-fits all, for example – each company will have its own mix of scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions sources and will need to cut accordingly.

When a business performs well across all three steps it provides long-term value without producing any negative effects on the environment or society. Flogas Enterprise are delighted to sponsor the ESG Awards 2023 which takes place today at the Mansion House Dublin. The ESG Awards were established to recognise and celebrate individuals and groups who are actively striving to address environmental, social and governance issues. The Awards showcase the successes of ESG initiatives and examples of best practice, as well as highlighting the importance of transparency. We at Flogas Enterprise work with our customers to help them strive towards creating a transparently brighter future for generations to come.

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