Energy performance contract Makso

On June 23, 2021, Makso and Green Cadence signed a 5-year agreement to implement a package of sustainable measures that will eliminate Makso’s CO₂ emissions. This is another step for Makso in its ambitions to be a socially responsible company. For us, this first deal for a CO₂-neutral organization is a milestone in realizing our mission to contribute to a sustainable energy system. We are grateful to Makso for their trust and look forward to a fruitful collaboration. In this article we give an insight into this deal and how it came about.

Preliminary track

Previously, we realized a large-scale solar power project for Makso and created a carbon reduction plan. The carbon reduction plan in particular showed the potential for further cooperation. The solar power project has given confidence that Green Cadence is also strong in implementation.

The prerequisite for a far-reaching cooperation that covers the entire energy system is that knowledge in all relevant aspects of energy management is required. In this we are distinctive in the market through a combination of the following expertise:

1. Energy performance of buildings
2. Energy efficiency of plants and processes
3. Generation of renewable energy
4. CO₂-footprint determination
5. Project management, from concept to realization
6. Energy performance contract in which parties have equal interests

Equal interests

We will give an inside look at what is described in the contract below. After all, this is what makes a partnership with Green Cadence unique.

The preconditions for effective cooperation.

We are focused on accelerating the energy transition in organizations. However, this is complex, requires broad expertise and good cooperation. In addition, energy management is often not part of the ‘core business’ and therefore has a low priority. With an energy performance contract from Groene Cadans, you get high-quality expertise for a relatively low hourly rate and without far-reaching obligations. The contract is designed so that both parties have an interest in economically implementing effective measures to save energy and reduce CO₂ emissions. It is intended for organizations that need an integral and structural approach to sustainability. We take the lead and relieve you completely or work with your employees or regular suppliers to achieve the objectives.

With an energy performance contract from Green Cadence, you get high-quality expertise for a relatively low hourly rate and without far-reaching obligations.

A long-term cooperation is often successful only if clear agreements are made in advance. That’s why we work with Boot advocaten to draw up the contract. They are an authority in their field on renewable energy, sustainable buildings and energy performance contracts.

Implementation

For both parties, the value of the agreement lies in realizing effective measures to reduce energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. Green Cadence is taking the lead to implement the measures it identified in the CO2 reduction plan. The first projects planned are briefly explained here.

Energy Monitoring

We use a proprietary energy monitoring platform to act as Energy Manager. Equipment is installed to monitor energy consumption in real time and this is displayed graphically on displays in the building. This serves several purposes:

1. Demonstrate leadership on sustainability to inspire employees, customers and suppliers.
2. Provide detailed insight into energy consumption to avoid waste.
3. Measure and evaluate the results of energy-saving projects.

Building Automation

With the knowledge of Green Cadence and its partners, a cost-effective plan was created to centrally control the energy consumers with the most potential for energy savings. This will optimize the use of existing installations. Energy will be saved by not unnecessarily cooling/heating, humidifying and ventilating outside operating hours. This system also makes it possible to use the existing air conditioners (air-to-air heat pumps) for heating and avoid much of the gas consumption.

Conclusion

By taking effective sustainable measures, Makso will be able to achieve labels such as a ranking on the CO₂ performance ladder, certification according to ISO 14001 and/or 50001. With these, Makso will distinguish itself in the market and gain a competitive advantage. Not only through a lower cost price, but especially through sustainable production and corporate social responsibility.

This is the beginning of a fruitful collaboration on sustainability. By sharing these insights, we hope to inspire other organizations to explore a partnership with Green Cadence and take steps toward carbon neutral.