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Cleanwatts and Critical Software Join Forces in a Pioneering Virtual Energy Partnership
Portuguese companies unite through a Memorandum of Understanding promoting sustainability. This collaboration aims to prevent the equivalent of 200 tonnes of CO2 emissions over two years.
This innovative partnership is a first for Portugal, providing employees of the Portuguese technology firm access to shared local renewable energy through the Renewable Energy Communities (CER) developed and operated by Cleanwatts.
By joining this VREC, our teams will be able to save 20% on their electricity bills on average, calculated in comparison with market tariffs. The community will cover the facilities of Critical Software and our teams' homes who are part of the nearest Cleanwatts CER.
Cleanwatts anticipates that, between 2024 and 2025, over 40% of Portugal employees will be able to join this virtual community, with 45% of their consumption sourced from Cleanwatts’ solar plants scattered across the country. This will lead to the equivalent of a 200 tonne reduction in CO2 emissions. Over the coming months, these results will be monitored and reported periodically to ensure transparency and a commitment to the scheme. This aggregation is made possible through Cleanwatts’ management platforms, providing an overview of the number of members, energy consumption, and CO2 emissions prevented across the Critical Software community.
Luísa Matos, CEO of Cleanwatts, says of the initiative: “This initiative will bring significant sustainable benefits not only for the employees of Critical Software but also for the environment and economy. We believe that more companies can follow this example, presenting an excellent opportunity to offer more advantages to their employees, even those working remotely, as well as serving as an additional tool to meet companies’ sustainability goals, especially considering the forthcoming Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, which we hope will generate greater corporate concern regarding environmental, social, and governance issues.”
Gonçalo Quadros, Chairman of Critical Software, explains: “The Critical VREC is the perfect synergy between the company’s commitment to sustainability and the awareness of employees regarding the energy transition while enjoying better benefits. Alongside this pioneering community, Cleanwatts is promoting awareness-raising actions and energy literacy initiatives among our staff to clarify doubts and highlight the positive impacts, both at an individual and collective level.”
Cleanwatts continues to demonstrate its value as a strategic partner for companies seeking innovative solutions in the ESG sphere (Environment, Social & Governance), benefiting both businesses and employees in reinforcing the values of environmental and social responsibility.
This initiative not only underscores our drive to become more environmentally responsible, but also places focus on our desire to give back to our communities. Together, we’re building a more energy efficient future for all.