3. Use Renewables (Embodied Carbon)
As well as reducing likely emissions through lower-carbon building materials and design, the use of renewable energy1 throughout the production and construction process can make a significant contribution to achieving True Zero goals
PRODUCTION
It is theoretically possible to use renewable energy throughout the supply chain – i.e. in the supply, transport and manufacturing of raw materials – although in practice, it is currently very hard to influence.
CONSTRUCTION TRANSPORTATION
One option that is normally viable is to select contractors with ‘Net Zero’ goals; this should ensure that renewable energy is used wherever possible to transport the products from their manufacturing plant to the project site.
1 N.B. We are referring here to renewable energy sources that are traceable, such as Power Purchase Agreements and Renewable Energy Certificates, per the SBTs
CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION PROCESS
There are increasing options for generating renewable energy for on-site activities (which may include demolition works, construction activities, site accommodation and use of machinery and equipment). In practice, this is likely to involve:
Increased use of vehicles and machinery powered by renewable energy
Solar power generators or portable panels
Battery energy storage systems
Hydrogen fuel cells
Green energy grid connection (if available)
Generators powered by renewable fuels
