Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements
59 OCU Group Annual report and financial statements 2026
Environment continued
Key achievements continued Investing in lower-carbon technologies
Priorities for the next financial year Our key priorities include: • progressing through the SBTi validation process and embedding approved targets across the business; • implementation of our Group-wide transition plan to ensure delivery of our targets; • increasing procurement and utilisation of Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) certified electricity; • completing the rollout of SustainIQ environmental performance management software; • expanding lower-carbon fleet and plant technologies; and • supplier engagement events where sustainability will be a core topic.
200-tonne pipe pusher: Our investment in a 200-tonne pipe pusher has been delivering significant carbon savings on Vyrnwy Aqueduct Modernisation Programme (VAMP). With an ability to increase slip lining sections up to 2km, fewer pits have been needed. In addition, a reusable temporary design solution has enabled the base to be moved from site to site. 3 due to fewer pits and associated haul roads. This more efficient push also gives an estimated saving of 180 litres of diesel per day (452 kgCO 2 e). This has led to an estimated saving of 3,657 kgCO 2 e and 243m Delivering lower-carbon infrastructure solutions Innovation in project delivery continues to create measurable carbon savings for clients and communities. Recycled aggregates: In collaboration with Virgin Media O2, reinstatement works have utilised recycled aggregate across the South Greater Manchester area. Historically, recycled materials have seen limited adoption within standard reinstatement practices. The pilot successfully demonstrated their viability within footpath reinstatements and delivered an estimated carbon saving of 53,524 kgCO 2 e , providing a strong evidence base for wider adoption.
Innovative foundation solution: During the detailed design phase of the Fiddlers Ferry battery energy storage system (BESS) project, OCU identified an opportunity to replace traditional reinforced concrete foundations for the containers and inverters with screw pile technology. This engineering-led innovation reduced the foundation construction program by 48 working days – a 56.5% improvement – accelerating project delivery while significantly reducing material consumption, construction waste and embodied carbon. The solution demonstrates OCU’s ability to optimise design, improve project efficiency and deliver measurable environmental and commercial value for clients. Industry collaboration and influence Collaboration remains essential to achieving sector-wide decarbonisation. Powering Net Zero Pact: OCU participates in working groups on net-zero delivery and circularity, contributing to shared solutions and good practice across the power sector. Road to Net Zero Steering Group: OCU supports co-ordinated carbon reduction across street and road works, including trials of the sector’s carbon emissions evaluator tool.
Expanding our low-emission fleet: Reducing transport emissions remains a key priority. During the year, OCU has continued to increase its electric fleet, with all new employees' company cars exclusively Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) options, supporting employee adoption of lower‑emission transport. This has increased our BEV and PHEV fleet to 381, up from 186 last year. This includes eleven vans. This high growth rate in electric vehicles demonstrates continued progress towards reducing fleet-related emissions while supporting business expansion. EV charging points: OCU increased its charging network by 51% to 68 points. Allstar Home also supports employee home charging with costs passed to OCU. Renewable and battery-powered solutions: Solar and hybrid welfare units, generators and tower lights are reducing reliance on diesel across owned and hired plant. E-hotbox technology: The fleet increased to 22, reducing use of gas-powered alternatives and saving approximately 66,812kgCO 2 e per 26 tonne vehicle. Digital monitoring and telematics: Samsara provides better data on vehicles, fuel and driver behaviour, contributing to fuel-efficiency savings of 4%.
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