The Plan A Awards, which took place at the M&S Plan A Conference on 13 June, showcase the best practice examples from within its supply base. Burges Salmon was shortlisted in three categories at the Awards - including Supplier of The Year 2013, the Innovation Award 2013 and the Smart Business Award 2013 - for the work it has done helping M&S to procure energy directly from small scale renewable generators.
The three categories are outlined as:
- Supplier of the Year Award 2013 - for an initiative that is part of a comprehensive sustainability strategy. It recognises projects that demonstrate pace and scale that are replicable on a large scale, and inspire other businesses to act and leave a positive sustainability legacy.
- Innovation Award 2013 - for a new business model, technology or product that has enabled a sustainable step change within an industry or sector.
- Smart Business Award 2013 - for a company that has changed the way it does business or a project that has changed its approach, which has resulted in both cost and sustainability benefits.
Burges Salmon has worked with M&S since 2009, helping to further develop and formalise the retailer’s relationship with renewable energy generators to create a dedicated portfolio, delivering cost and sustainability benefits. The firm worked closely with the M&S Energy team and devised a suite of direct Power Purchase Agreements based around a Price Guarantee Agreement (PGA) model that fitted with its energy supply contract.
Burges Salmon’s development of the PGA has enabled M&S to procure renewable energy directly from energy generators. It has redefined energy procurement options for socially responsible businesses and has been a catalyst for new routes to market for smaller renewable energy generators. Large corporates have also sought to emulate the M&S PGA Model. By creating the contractual frameworks, Burges Salmon has set the benchmark across the energy industry for contracting renewable power from small-scale renewable generators. Its legal framework has become the standard, streamlining the time taken for contracts to be signed and has enabled small-scale renewable power generators to start producing power in a shorter timescale.
Energy and waste projects partner Nick Churchward said: “We are delighted to have been shortlisted in three categories for the M&S Plan A Supplier Awards. The firm has worked with M&S for a number of years providing legal advice to Property, Energy and Plan A and these shortlistings are testament to the high levels of client service and unique sector insight that we can offer.”