M&S Scottish stores turn to local suppliers for renewable electricity

The retailer has signed a four-year agreement with independent energy purchaser and supplier – SmartestEnergy.
Under the contract, which was coordinated by energy consultant, Inenco, all the electricity will be sourced from independent renewable generation sites in Scotland, directly supporting local, small-scale independent generators.

SmartestEnergy was the only supplier able to provide a deal that supported the local renewable generation sector, something M&S was looking to do under its Plan A objective to source or generate 100 per cent ‘green’ electricity for M&S stores, offices and distribution centres in the UK and Republic of Ireland. SmartestEnergy will be supplying M&S with renewable electricity from independent generation projects in Scotland such as Westray community wind turbine project in the Orkney Islands. SmartestEnergy will be supplying M&S with renewable electricity from independent
generation projects in Scotland, such as Westray community wind turbine project in the Orkney Islands.

Mervyn Bowden, head of Energy Management at M&S, said: “Sourcing our electricity from independent renewable generation is an important part of our wider commitment to the environment through Plan A, our 100 point eco-plan."

With over 300 business sites signed up to buy 100 per cent renewable electricity from SmartestEnergy since the launch of its supply service in September 2008, SmartestEnergy say it is the only supplier in the UK that allows business customers to specify the exact generation project they want their renewable electricity to be sourced from. The company has agreements with over 400 generation sites across the UK, giving it a portfolio of over 1500 megawatts of electricity.

Jo Butlin, vice president for Retail at SmartestEnergy, said: “We are delighted to be working with Marks & Spencer. The group has shown itself as a true leader not only in industry but also in its commitment to the environment and the local community.

"If we want to meet our renewable energy and climate change targets it is essential that we support independent generators who are fundamental in helping us bridge the forthcoming energy gap in a cost-effective and environmentally-responsible way. Corporate demand can help support these generators and Marks & Spencer is leading the way”.