Steelcase Inc., a Michigan-based office furniture company, has announced the company's renewable energy investment is equivalent to 100% of its worldwide electricity consumption. The company has chosen to purchase its renewable energy credits (RECs) from a portfolio that includes newer wind power and hydroelectric projects in North America and Europe.
‘Our commitment to renewable energy is reflective of our passion for innovation and the environment. We're helping grow an industry that will ultimately benefit the entire world,’ says Jim Keane, president and CEO of Steelcase Inc.
The company adds that its REC purchases are part of the company's larger energy strategy, which has resulted in a 60% reduction in energy use since the company began tracking its consumption in 2001.
Furthermore, Steelcase says it has created a program to help encourage the company's suppliers to purchase RECs from new wind energy facilities that came online in 2011 or later. Those partners choosing to participate will benefit from Steelcase's volume discount pricing.
‘We see this program as both a business advantage and extension of the company's long-term commitment to sustainability,’ comments Angela Nahikian, director of global environmental sustainability for Steelcase. ‘As demand for fossil fuels begins to outpace global supply, we'll know that we've played an important role in developing a market for clean energy. It's exciting to be able to offer this great benefit to our trusted partners.’
