Siemens 2009 Annual Report Download - page 60

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www.siemens.com/sustainablecities
Unless cities substantially reduce their CO emissions, the battle
against climate change will be lost. In view of this sobering fact,
we commissioned several studies on sustainable urban develop-
ment. The aim of these studies was twofold: to encourage dia-
logue among all involved stakeholders and to show how technolo-
gies already available today can help cities improve their overall
environmental balance.
Urban centers are responsible for 75 percent of the energy consumed worldwide and 80 percent of
all global greenhouse gas emissions. That’s why climate protection must begin in cities. And this
may well prove to be an advantage. Focused on urban centers rather than rural areas, climate
protection measures can be more effective. Since buildings account for almost 40 percent of the
world’s energy requirements, they also harbor the greatest potential for energy savings. Around
30 percent of the power consumed in residential, commercial and public structures can be con-
served through better insulation, well-regulated ventilation and air-conditioning systems and
more efficient heating technologies. What’s more, such improvements can be readily financed
through energy-saving performance contracting (ESPC).
How does ESPC work? An energy contractor plans, finances and implements a package of ener-
gy-saving measures, guaranteeing the customer energy and cost savings of a specified amount.
The contractor is paid from these savings for the term of the contract. The financial benefits of all
subsequently generated savings accrue to the customer. The Energiesparpartnerschaft Berlin, an
energy-saving initiative in Germany’s capital, has already shown that the approach is effective. In
1995, the State of Berlin, which comprises the City of Berlin and its surrounding region, embarked
on a major ESPC project to upgrade energy systems in local public buildings. To date, energy-saving
measures have been implemented in about 500 Berlin structures at a cost (including maintenance)
of some €60 million. The initiative, which is partially financed by private energy service providers,
has cut energy expenditures in schools, daycare centers, universities, municipal buildings and city
swimming pools by 25 percent, generating annual savings of €11 million.
Studies of sustainable urban development
For several years now, we’ve been working with a variety of stakeholders on topics related to sus-
tainable urban development. Beginning in 2008, we commissioned – together with independent
partners – studies of individual cities such as London, Munich and Dublin in order to identify areas
where energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions can be cut. We’re now working on
several more studies. Our goal is to initiate a dialogue between companies, cities, governments,
NGOs, industry associations and climate initiatives on sustainable urban development. These stud-
ies are also improving our understanding of the needs of cities and enabling us to provide solutions
for sustainable urban development. To bundle our wide array of urban solutions and optimally
support and advise our customers, we’ve set up a dedicated Market Development Board within the
Siemens One organization.
Our contribution to
sustainable urban development
 Introduction  Our world 36 Our company
52 Our understanding of sustainability 54 Driving sustainable business 58 Our contribution to
sustainable urban development