In 2022, Yettel Bulgaria unveiled its Sustainability Strategy 2028, underscoring its commitment to a cleaner, more inclusive future. The telecom giant set measurable goals across four key areas: environment, people, technology for a sustainable future, and governance rooted in integrity and transparency.
As society grapples with balancing economic growth and environmental protection, buildings play a crucial role, accounting for 40% of global energy consumption and 33% of greenhouse gas emissions. Enhancing their energy efficiency is pivotal to achieving climate neutrality.
The EU aims to become the first climate-neutral continent by 2050 and has implemented legislative changes to support this transition. The updated Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), effective May 2024, mandates zero on-site emissions from fossil fuels for all new buildings by 2030, with public buildings adhering to this by 2028. This directive also phases out fossil fuels from heating existing buildings and promotes solar power installation.
Yettel Bulgaria exemplifies how ambitious targets can be met through practical action. Since 2023, its headquarters has been powered entirely by renewable energy. The company’s efforts to improve building energy efficiency include continuous upgrades to its Building Management System (BMS). This system monitors electrical systems, UPS, elevators, and air conditioning, aiming to reduce electricity consumption by minimizing losses and using alternative energy sources.
Facility and Fleet Manager Galin Rashkov highlights that sustainable facility management goes beyond cost reduction. It aims for responsible resource use and sustainable practices, balancing efficient building management with improved indoor environments. Technological advancements play a significant role, offering innovative solutions to transform buildings into smart ones.
Yettel has integrated smart zone controllers into its BMS, allowing real-time monitoring and adjustment of air conditioning and heating. An Internet of Things (IoT) solution enhances this system, preventing energy loss by stopping energy supply when windows are opened. These innovations, part of the retrofitting method, have led to an average annual energy saving of 5%.
During non-working hours, systems switch to energy-saving modes, maintaining lower temperatures in winter and higher temperatures in summer, conserving energy while meeting occupational health standards. These measures have enabled Yettel to reduce its headquarters’ energy consumption by 40% in 2022 compared to previous years.
Yettel has also installed a photovoltaic system on its headquarters’ roof, producing 36,177 kWh annually, and solar collectors for hot water, enhancing energy efficiency. A significant milestone is a 10-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Electrohold Trade, supplying 80% of Yettel’s and 86% of CETIN’s energy needs from a 123 MW photovoltaic plant. This project reduces carbon emissions by nearly 33,000 tonnes annually, aiming for a 60% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2024.
These initiatives reflect Yettel’s commitment to renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions, aligning with its Sustainability Strategy 2028. By relying entirely on renewable energy sources, Yettel sets a strong example in the telecommunications sector, demonstrating that significant progress towards a greener future is achievable.
