EirGrid plc Annual Report 2011

EirGrid plc Annual Report & Accounts 2011
Recognising the needs of communities in areas
where we do business, we provided funding during
the year for projects in areas including Co. Meath,
Fingal County, and Co. Kerry. We also supported
projects which provide national and local benefit
including the Fleadh Cheoil in Co. Cavan and the
Euro-toques rural food awards.
How we care for the Environment
EirGrid Group takes into account the environmental
effects of our work both directly in our offices and in
our operation of the power system and market.
Within EirGrid in our offices and control centres in
Dublin and Belfast, we monitor energy usage and
work to reduce it through energy efficient appliances
and processes, ensuring for instance that lighting
in areas not being used is switched off. To reduce
transportation energy use, we promote the use of
conference calls and video-conferencing for
meetings and make available the proceedings of
customer workshops by webinar.
In our operation of the power system, we run a
number of schemes designed to encourage large
energy users to reduce their usage where possible.
Our work in developing the power system in Ireland
and in supporting and designing grid upgrades in
Northern Ireland, facilitates the development of
renewable energy plants in areas where resources
are plentiful, as well as the transfer of power from
wind farms and other renewable generators to
customers. This work in Ireland and Northern
Ireland directly supports the targets of the
respective governments and of the European Union
in meeting targets for CO2 and in combating the
threat of global warming. In developing power
lines and substations, environmental factors are
always taken into account from the beginning,
and our projects match Irish and international
regulations.
We apply for planning permission and supply the
relevant environmental studies as part of the public
planning process. Where power lines are proposed,
careful consideration and study takes place in
relation to potential effects on flora, fauna and the
visual environment.
How we Engage with Our Staff
A key part of EirGrid’s vision is to create a great
working environment for all our staff. We believe that
an open and clear channel of communication and
engagement with staff is necessary. This will benefit
the company and will ensure quality of service for
our customers and stakeholders. During 2011, a
review of team briefing processes took place.
We participated in the Great Place to Work ©
survey and any areas of improvement identified
were addressed by action plans implemented in
consultation with staff during the year. EirGrid is
committed to equal opportunities in its recruitment
and operations and supports education, training
and development for employees. During 2011, a
programme of additional training was rolled out.
Programmes aimed at promoting good health among
staff were also held, and a focus on health and
safety in the workplace was once again emphasised.
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