Energise worked with Bell Group to improve the accuracy of its carbon footprint, strengthen its Net Zero strategy and enhance sustainability engagement across its supply chain and communities. Through better emissions data, supplier collaboration and targeted outreach programmes, Bell Group improved the credibility of its reporting, strengthened its position for public sector tenders and increased its environmental and social impact.
Understanding the Need for Support
Bell Group has been working with Energise as part of a three‑year sustainability partnership, and this project represented year two of that journey. The organisation was keen to build on the foundations already in place by improving the accuracy of its greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint and ensuring its sustainability reporting was robust, credible and fit for purpose.
Alongside this, Bell Group required a refreshed Net Zero strategy that would strengthen its position when tendering for public sector contracts, where clear and confident sustainability credentials are increasingly essential. A further priority was demonstrating commitment beyond reporting, through meaningful engagement with communities and supply‑chain partners on environmental and social impact.
Energise’s Approach
Energise took a collaborative and practical approach, working closely with Bell Group to address both technical reporting challenges and wider engagement goals.
A key focus was improving the accuracy of the GHG footprint, particularly within Purchased Goods and Services (PG&S). Historically, this data set contained thousands of generic line items, making it difficult to apply appropriate carbon factors. Energise worked with Bell Group to review and refine general ledger (GL) codes, enabling the application of more accurate emissions factors. This was further strengthened through engagement with key suppliers, resulting in supplier‑specific emissions factors for four suppliers and product specific factors for a further three.
In parallel, Energise supported the development of a refreshed Net Zero strategy. By ensuring the strategy was up to date, evidence‑based and clearly articulated, Bell Group is now better placed to demonstrate its relatively advanced sustainability position and provide confidence in its ability to meet long-term climate commitments.
Beyond strategy and reporting, we delivered a range of community and stakeholder engagement initiatives. This included the creation of a home energy‑saving pack for social housing residents, produced in both paper and digital formats. The packs provided clear, easy‑to‑digest actions, alongside associated cost savings and climate benefits. Energise also delivered a workshop to approximately 60 subcontractors and SMEs, covering practical energy‑saving advice tailored to their day‑to‑day operations, with a strong focus on cost savings to encourage real behavioural change.
Outcomes and Benefits
The project delivered tangible improvements across multiple areas. Bell Group has made significant progress in the accuracy of its carbon footprint, with 20% of PG&S emissions now calculated using supplier‑ or product‑specific factors. This represents an important step forward in data quality and confidence in reporting.
The refreshed Net Zero strategy and strengthened evidence base have enhanced Bell Group’s ability to tender for public sector contracts, supported by a more meaningful and credible long‑term plan. In addition, engagement with residents, subcontractors and wider stakeholders has been improved, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to environmental and social responsibility in a practical and accessible way.
“Working with Energise over the past two years has been invaluable. Their expertise has not only enhanced the knowledge and capability of our teams but has also helped us develop a focused and practical net zero roadmap. Their support with supply chain engagement, legislative compliance and cross-sector innovation has enabled us to accelerate progress and deliver meaningful change across our business. Thank you for all your professional guidance and support.”
Looking Ahead
With two years of the partnership complete, there is a strong platform in place for future collaboration. Opportunities include further expanding supplier engagement to increase the proportion of primary emissions data, progressing additional social and environmental initiatives, and continuing to embed sustainability into both operations and tendering activity.
The success of the community engagement work has already highlighted the potential for deeper and broader programmes that deliver real‑world impact while supporting Bell Group’s strategic sustainability objectives.
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