Gas Networks Ireland said it achieved a 47% energy improvement across its offices and fleet last year.
The company's 2020 sustainability report - released today - said that exceeded the national Public Sector Energy Efficiency Target by 14%.
Gas Networks Ireland's third annual sustainability report highlights the ongoing progress made by the national gas network operator in supporting environmental, social and economic sustainability within both its own business and the communities in which it operates.
Despite the limitations due to the Covid pandemic, Gas Networks Ireland said it exceeded all its sustainability targets last year.
One of only 40 companies in Ireland to hold a Business Working Responsibly Mark, Gas Networks Ireland was also recognised as "taking coordinated action on climate issues".
It achieved a "B-" in the Carbon Disclosure Platform (CDP) global emissions ratings, exceeding the global, European and sector averages to finish in the top quartile of all businesses assessed globally.
During the year, the utility company secured approval for the country's second renewable gas injection facility in Mitchelstown in Co Cork.
It also opened its second compressed natural gas (CNG) publicly accessible refueling station in Cashel, Co Tipperary, and marked the development of two more stations in Clonshaugh in Co Dublin, and on the Ballysimon Road in Limerick.
Gas Networks Ireland's Managing Director, Denis O'Sullivan, said that the gas network is a vital national asset and the cornerstone of Ireland's energy system.
"We are ever mindful of our sustainability responsibilities and aim to contribute to the protection of the environment while supporting the social and economic development of the communities we operate in. We are proud of our achievements in 2020 and committed to ensuring that sustainability is at the forefront of everything we do," Mr O'Sullivan said.
The Gas Networks Ireland boss said that as a leading utility, sustainability is defined by the company's role in delivering an affordable and clean energy future for the people of Ireland, through the decarbonisation of the gas network and the reduction of emissions across all sectors of the Irish economy.
"We believe that our 'Sustainability in Action' strategy will continue to improve our business in a sustainable and responsible way for the people of Ireland, particularly now as we navigate new ways of working following the unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic," he added.
