Animal magic: Solar system helps power Edinburgh Zoo, thanks to Local Heroes’ sponsor E.ON
Nestled amongst the giraffe, lions and penguins, there’s a modern, sustainable power source that’s a vital part of Edinburgh Zoo’s vision for the future.
E.ON energy has installed a solar meadow, part of the way in which the zoo hopes to reduce its carbon footprint by 60 per cent by 2030 and be net zero by 2040. The 1500 solar panel meadow which could generate more than 1MW of power, making it the optimal environment for the wellbeing of the animals.
Simon Duncan, Director of Sustainable Solutions at E.ON, says the project is an example of his own personal goals for the planet, and his company’s mission: “Our partnership with Edinburgh Zoo is something I’m really proud of. Their values completely intertwine with ours, what they’re doing to help protect animals and preserve biodiversity in our world is phenomenal, and to see them become the number one Zoo in the UK for green energy generation is incredible.”
And speaking ahead of the Edinburgh Evening News Local Heroes awards, where E.ON is sponsoring the Sustainable Schools category, he said inspiring the next generation is vital: “Sustainability is incredibly important for your future, as it’ll help protect the planet you live in. Sustainability means taking care of our planet by using resources wisely and making sure there’s enough for future generations, like yours.
“When you grow up, many jobs will focus on making the world more sustainable, like renewable energy, recycling, and conservation. By learning about sustainability now, you’ll be prepared to be part of a better, greener, and healthier future for everyone.”
He said he was overwhelmed with pride and emotion at the young people in last year’s ceremony, and was determined to sponsor the category again this year.
“At E.ON we believe in the importance of encouraging and recognising schools and schoolchildren that are making a positive impact on the planet – we call them ‘Change Makers’. By supporting this award we hope to inspire schools to adopt eco-friendly practices, educate students about the significance of sustainability, and create a greener future for our communities and the planet. It’s our way of contributing to a better and sustainable world and recognising the incredible young people making a difference.”
E.ON is concentrating on connecting people to greener, practical solutions for people. That means working on ‘good energy’ and providing solar panels, heat pumps, electric vehicle chargers and wind turbines at home, at work and across communities.
The firm is working to decarbonise entire cities, and has 8,000 members of staff helping customers across the UK, and nearly 80,000 in total across 15 countries in Europe.
It has already installed over 5,000,000 smart meters, fitted solar panels to 16,000 homes, installed 2,000 heat pumps, 2,000 EV charges, and over 35,000 energy efficient boilers, and helped thousands of vulnerable customers pay their bills and replace inefficient appliances.
Coupled with other energy efficient measures in 1.4million homes, and working with 50 local authorities across the UK, its commitment to helping customers use ‘good energy’ is immense
Simon added: “E.ON has a clear mission to help, and believes that however big or small, every positive action makes a difference to our planet. What action are you taking, and is it something we at E.ON can help with?”
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