To carry out our core tasks, we use the expertise and capacity of contractors and install components in the network. Enexis aims to comply with international human rights and labour standards. As a result of the energy transition, employees in our value chain may experience increased work pressure. This can lead to unsafe situations and health problems. Enexis aims to manage these risks and opportunities through targeted measures and cooperation in the sector. (ESRS S2 par. 9)
In this report, we report on two value chains. First, the supplier chain, which includes workers of companies from which we buy components for our electricity grid and gas network, such as cables, gas pipes, and transformers. And second, the contractor chain, which includes the people we work with to build and maintain our grid. Currently, we have limited insight into the other value chains. (ESRS S2 SBM 3 par. 11)
Our relationship with the two groups of workers is not identical. In the supply chain, we do not work directly with employees. In the contractor chain, however, there is close cooperation, as Enexis and contractor employees perform the same type of work. As far as health and safety are concerned, the interests and risks are the same. (ESRS S2 SBM 3 par. 11)
For workers of suppliers and contractors, we see the following negative impacts:
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Working conditions |
Potential negative impact: Lack of safety measures and/or awareness could lead to health risks and absenteeism among supply chain workers. |
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Working conditions |
Potential negative impact: A lack of safety measures and/or awareness among contractors could lead to health risks and absenteeism among contractor employees. |
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Energy transition creates heavier workload
Due to the energy transition, teh amount of work is growing, and we are forced to rely on the (timely) delivery of components and the use of contractors. We believe this is creating a heavier workload for our partners. This can lead to unsafe working situations and stress-related health problems. This observation has not led to any changes in our strategy and business model, but it has prompted us to take action (see below). (ESRS S2 par. 10)
We conducted a study to assess whether employees in (part of) our value chain are at risk of harm. This study was carried out using industry data with guidance from a specialist consultancy. This study found that the extraction of raw materials such as copper and aluminium carries a risk of negative impacts on workers, including human rights violations (including child, forced, and bonded labour). (ESRS S2 par. 11/12) We continue to monitor the potential effects and dependencies as part of our risk management and (sustainability) strategy. This is necessary in the context of responsible business and sustainable value creation. (ESRS S2 par. 13)