Independent renewable energy company RES Group, which is based in Kings Langley, has been described as one of the greenest businesses in Britain, according to the Sunday Times 2009 list published this week, and its staff’s responses put it in the Top 10 in the competition’s unique survey of staff engagement with environmental issues.

RES has built more than 70 wind farms around the world, which have a total capacity to supply the equivalent of around 2.2m UK homes a year and to reduce CO2 emissions by more than 4.5m tonnes. The company develops, constructs and operates low-carbon energy technology and is keen to educate future generations about its significance, offering free visits and training to children and teachers at Beaufort Court, its headquarters in Kings Langley.

A 93% green score, bettered by just one other company, shows that RES has a high reputation for being green among staff friends and family. The workforce doesn't associate being environmentally responsible with beards and sandals (94%, again ranking second overall) and 92% of its staff tend to think green.

Staff are careful not to waste energy: 86% said they would rather put on a jumper than turn up the heating - another second-place ranking. And this is despite the headquarters being supplied by renewable heat and electricity. Power for the office is generated on-site by a 120ft wind turbine and 54m2 of photovoltaic panels. The building is heated by a biomass boiler and solar thermal panels and the offices are cooled naturally using water drawn from a 245ft borehole.

The parent company of RES, Sir Robert McAlpine, is a founder member of the UK Green Building Council, which aims to improve standards in the construction industry. RES has embraced this environmental commitment, which staff say is at the heart of how the firm operates (90%).

RES cut paper waste by 25% last year, exceeding its target of 10%. Staff are encouraged to use public transport or car share for travelling to work and 80% said they consider the impact of their work-related travel. RES has invested in hybrid and electric cars and bicycles for staff.

Some 3,000 young people, professionals and local residents a year also get first-hand experience of renewable energy by visiting Beaufort Court.

On Saturday, 20 June, RES will be opening its doors to visitors to mark Global Wind Day.

Tags: RES Group