DTI is committed to the use of renewable energy and meeting the energy targets launched in June 2006. As a part of the strategy to achieve this commitment the Department purchases energy from green sources and has engaged with the Carbon Trust to carry out feasibility studies into localised micro-generation. It has bought electricity from green sources equating to 36 per cent. for the period 2005-06 of its HQ estate requirement compared to a target of 10 per cent. by 2008.
The DTI is committed to the targets for energy efficiency and reduction in carbon emissions as set out in the Framework for Sustainable Development in Government. The strategy has been and continues to be to improve energy efficiency and carbon emission reduction.
During the period 1990-2000 to 2004-05 the DTI have achieved a reduction in carbon emissions from 5.2 to 4.4 metric tonnes.
Over the past two years the Department has reduced the size of its London HQ estate by over 30 per cent. with a corresponding reduction in all the associated environmental impacts. This has been achieved by making more efficient use of its existing accommodation and the adoption of flexible desking on the basis of eight workstations for every 10 staff. Other carbon reduction initiatives include the purchase of nearly a third of its electricity from renewable sources between 1999-2000 and 2004-05.
The Department has also implemented or has planned a number of energy efficiency initiatives since the target was published. This includes a number of energy efficiency projects to improve lighting and environmental controls as well as occupant awareness. Energy efficiency is taken into account in any estate project undertaken and has included the introduction of energy minimising technology within the recent IT systems refresh.