Public Servant Lifestyle

Government buildings given green energy.

100% of the electricity supplies to 10 Downing Street, and two main Cabinet Office buildings, are now being generated from renewable energy sources.

"The very heart of government is now being powered by electricity from renewable sources, such as wind, hydro and landfill gas," said Chris Leslie, the Cabinet Office green minister.

"This is an important step towards the greening of government, and will save around 2,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, over the coming year. It is also highly symbolic, and I would encourage other organisations, to consider the benefits of opting for Climate Change Levy-exempt green electricity."

Renewable Sources

The Cabinet Office has agreed two twelve-month contracts, to supply electricity from entirely renewable sources, to 10 Downing Street, 70 Whitehall and Admiralty Arch. This accounts for over 75% of the power used across the Cabinet Office's large central London estate.

Every central government department has a green minister, who acts as an advocate of sustainable development in their own departments, and associated bodies. They ensure the necessary systems are in place, and that environmental and sustainable development considerations are taken into account, when policies are made, or decisions taken, on the operation of buildings and their facilities.

More information available in Work Environment