DECC signs up to 10:10 campaign

The Department of Energy and Climate Change has today reaffirmed its pledge to cut its own carbon emissions by signing up to the 10:10 campaign. The Department will now cut emissions by 10% in 2010 on top of an existing commitment to reduce emissions by 10% in the financial year 2009/10.

To achieve the 10:10 pledge, DECC is in the process of improving the energy efficiency of its lighting, air conditioning and IT system. Longer term, the Department is looking at generating its own low carbon electricity and connecting to the Whitehall district heating scheme.

The Department's London headquarters also published today its latest monthly energy efficiency rating for October which is a ‘D'. In the past year DECC has reduced its use of gas by 90% and its use of electricity by 22%.

Energy and climate change minister Joan Ruddock said: "By signing up to the 10:10 campaign, DECC is cementing its leadership role in championing energy efficiency. Saving energy not only makes sense for the climate, but it makes financial sense too.

"The 10:10 campaign is sending a message to governments around the world that the UK is serious about tackling climate change ahead of the crucial climate talks at Copenhagen."