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edp > About EDP > Principles and Policies > Principles of Sustainable Development of the EDP Group

Principles of Sustainable Development of the EDP Group

EDP develops its core business activities in a sector that is vital to economic and social development, the electricity sector. In addition to producing an essential good, EDP`s business also creates wealth for the community through dividends paid to shareholders, through its role as employer and through meeting its tax obligations. Operating in a highly technological sector, the companies of the EDP Group are also sources of technical skill and innovation.

Sustainability - A better future

The company`s mission is based on three fundamental aspects: creation of shareholder value, customer orientation, and a focus on the company`s human potential. The aim is to be the most competitive and efficient electricity and gas operator of the Iberian Peninsula. To achieve this goal, EDP undertakes the management of its activities in accordance with principles of transparency, regard for the environment and compliance with the very highest standards of ethics and honesty.
 
In March 2004, the Board of Directors of EDP approved the Principles of Sustainable Development of the EDP Group. These principles will guide the seek of balance between economical, environmental and social activities of the EDP Group.
 
EDP is committed to develop its activities in a sustainable way, within the several economic sectors where it is present. Electric energy, in particular, is an important driver of economic development, of the fight against social exclusion and of the improvement of populations life standards.
 
EDP will seek balance between economical, environmental and social aspects through the application of the following principles:

Creation of value

> Create shareholder value

> Increase productivity and efficiency, and reduce exposure to risks related to the economical, environmental and social impact of its activities

> Commit to costumer orientation, ensuring high quality of service

> Integrate environmental and social aspects in planning and decision making processes

Efficient use of resources

> Promote the development of cleaner and more efficient energy technologies

> Develop means of generation based on renewable energies

> Promote the rational use of energy

Environmental protection

> Minimize the environmental impact of all its activities

> Participate in initiatives that contribute to the preservation of the environment

> Extend the use of environmental criteria to the entire value chain

Integrity

> Ensure the observance of ethical standards in the conduction of business

> Respect human rights in its sphere of influence

>  Elaborate specific codes of conduct

Dialogue with stakeholders

> Ensure an open, transparent and trustful relationship with the different stakeholder group

> Establish stakeholder communication channels and integrate their concern

> Report performance in a credible, objective way in its economical, environmental and social dimensions

Human capital management

> Reinforce management systems to ensure health, safety and well-being of worke

> Promote the development of individual skills and reward excellence and merit

> Reject abusive and discriminatory practices

Promotion of access to electric energy

> Promote reliable and generalized access to electric energy

> Adopt a transparent and socially fair price policy

> Develop means of electricity generation with appropriate quality at a minimum cost

Support to social development

> Support social and cultural promotion initiatives, based on transparent assessment of importance to the community

> Promote technology transfer to developing countries