Public sector must 'take the lead' in green energy procurement
Public sector bodies need to take the lead in promoting the procurement of their energy needs from environmentally-friendly sources, according to a government minister.
Minister for the environment, Phil Woolas, called on public sector organisations to fulfil an exemplary role in meeting energy efficiency targets as the UK works towards meeting the requirements of the European Union Energy Services Directive.
To this end he launched a consultation, examining the level of green energy procurement already taking place in the public sector and to then ask organisations to recommend measures they believe could enhance green purchasing of energy in the future.
"Energy efficiency makes good business sense - it reduces costs and it reduces emissions," Mr Woolas said.
"I also fully encourage the public sector to embrace this new consultation, to lead by example and to continue to work towards the collective goal of reducing our environmental impact," he added.
The EU directive is set to be introduced in May 2008 and requires member states to reach an energy savings target of nine per cent by 2017. 
Article Date: 13 December 2007
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