We buy gas to supply to our gas customers and our Sutton Bridge power plant through a diversified contract portfolio
Our trading arm, EDF Trading, buys imported coal and forward gas (future gas purchase options) for us. We’ve integrated sustainability assessments (to formally assess all energy trading counterparties) into our standard risk management systems. These are based on the UN Global Compact social and environmental criteria and undertaken by a specialist organisation, Innovest Strategic Value Investors Ltd. We work closely with Innovest, particularly if they highlight areas of concern.
At the start of 2007 we started reviewing our largest supply business customers. We also worked with Innovest in 2007 to make its scoring methodology more detailed.
Sutton Bridge power station
Sutton Bridge power station, on the east bank of the River Nene, south-east of Sutton Bridge, is at the forefront of CCGT technology. Its 790MW generating capacity supplies 2% of the electricity for England and Wales. Completed in May 1999 and costing about £337 million, it aims to contribute as much as it can to the local community, and is proud to be one of the cleanest and most efficient stations in Europe.
Education and community
In September 2001 Sutton Bridge opened its visitor centre, geared to everyone from primary school pupils to Year 13, as well as general visitors. The centre's mix of hands-on activities, animated illustrations and work-books contribute to the local schools' science curriculum.
The Power Fund
The Sutton Bridge Power Fund was set up by Sutton Bridge to provide financial assistance for local charitable and community projects. The station pays at least £20,000 a year into an endowment fund, from which £15,000 is made available for grants each year. The rest goes into a capital fund, which will eventually allow the power fund to be self-sustaining. Grant applications are considered by an Executive Committee of local community representatives, whose recommendations are passed to fund trustees.