QBE North America to purchase renewable energy for key office

Initiative is part of its commitment to reach net zero by 2030

By Steven Byerley

Jul 24, 2023 Share

QBE North America has announced that in an effort to reduce its carbon footprint, it will purchase certified renewable energy through the Marblehead Municipal Light Department's (MMLD) "Go Green Now!" program for its Marblehead, Mass., office.

While originally aimed at residential customers, QBE North America is now MMLD's first commercial participant in this program. The move is part of QBE North America’s commitment to achieve net zero by 2030 for its operations.

“We started this program when a growing number of Massachusetts residents expressed interest in being a part of the climate crisis solution,” said Joseph Kowalik, general manager at MMLD. “So we were pleasantly surprised when we got the call from QBE North America with their interest to participate for commercial use. As the first local business to participate in the program, QBE North America is setting an example for others to follow while helping to create a more sustainable future.”

The process involves purchasing renewable energy certificates, which serve as evidence that the energy used comes from renewable sources like wind or solar farms. By doing so, companies can effectively reduce their emissions and support projects that further promote renewable energy usage.

Read next: QBE Insurance Group outlines first-half results expectations

The initiative in Marblehead adds to QBE North America's existing efforts towards sustainability. The company has already purchased certified renewable energy in other states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Carolina.

“We are dedicated to operating our business with sustainability principles in mind, and proactively reaching out to Marblehead Municipal Light to purchase certified renewable energy demonstrates that commitment,” said Chris Gates, assistant vice president of business operations at QBE North America. “As a company, we are using 100% renewable electricity and are constantly looking for new ways to reduce our carbon footprint even further.”

QBE was among many insurers who exited the Net-Zero Insurance Alliance in May. Earlier this month, the company announced the addition of former AXIS CEO Peter Wilson to its board as a non-executive director.

Have something to say about this story? Let us know in the comments below.