Translink has signed a £1.78 million contract with energy supplier Electric Ireland that will mean the public transport provider continues to purchase all of its metered electricity from 100% renewable sources.

Under the new 12 month deal Translink, which was recently ranked as the highest scoring organisation in Northern Ireland for carbon reduction, will continue to achieve its significant energy sustainability objectives.

Speaking about the new energy contract, Philip Reid, Translink Energy Engineer, said:

“Translink is not only committed to getting more passengers to travel by bus and train as a sustainable travel option but also to reducing our own carbon footprint and operating efficiently.  This new contract marks another significant step forward in our environmental strategy, and demonstrates our commitment to building a cleaner and more sustainable environment for everyone.”

“Our focus on sustainability has already delivered important business benefits by reducing energy costs substantially year on year as well as environmental benefits.

“This result has been achieved by introducing a range of environmental schemes and initiatives including half-hourly electricity metering, a ‘Go Eco’ internal energy awareness campaign for all employees, energy efficient lighting installed at most of our depots, and cleaner heating fuels such as natural gas instead of oil.

“These environmental programmes have collected a range of accolades over recent years including the Carbon Trust Standard and most recently Translink was ranked as the highest scoring organisation in Northern Ireland in the 2010/11 Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) Energy Efficiency Scheme.

Susan Kinane, Electric Ireland Business Markets Manager commented: “The contract to supply  renewable energy to such a large public service provider highlights our credentials as a leading green energy provider, as well as our ability to provide highly competitive pricing and tailored energy solutions backed with first class customer service.

“Translink his demonstrated its commitment to sustainability and indeed been recognised for implementing a robust environmental strategy.  Electric Ireland is delighted to assist the company in aligning its energy supply with its overall environmental aims” concluded Susan.

ENDS

For further information click www.translink.co.uk or call 028 9066 6630.

Pictured (l-r)Derek Russell, Commercial Manager Electric Ireland and Philip Reid, Translink Energy Engineer announce the new energy contract

Notes to Editors:• Translink’s Environmental Strategy features a range of energy-saving initiatives including: Eco-Drive telematic technology used on buses, Energy Warden monitoring programmes across facilities, energy staff briefings and communication campaigns, partnerships with the Carbon Trust and Energy Saving Trust.• Electric Ireland, formally ESB Indepenent Energy, has been supplying tailored energy solutions to the business community of Northern Ireland for over 12 years. If you are intersted to know more about Electric Irelands range of products and supports please visit www.electricireland.com