T-Systems joins energy efficiency campaign

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Pretoria - T-Systems, one of the global leaders in the ICT industry, has joined Eskom's energy efficiency campaign, 49M.

Drawing on a global infrastructure of data centres and networks, the company operates information and communication technology (ICT) systems for multinational corporations and public sector institutions.

The company, which is Deutsche Telekom's corporate customer arm, said the move to join 49M symbolised their commitment to changing the future of energy security in SA.

"Sustainability is one of T-Systems' core beliefs internationally, and a big part of creating a sustainable future is reducing energy consumption through smart, efficient and green IT practices and technologies. By joining the 49M movement, we are taking a significant step towards bringing this core belief home," said Gert Schoonbee, Managing Director of T-Systems in South Africa.

The partnership agreement was signed on Tuesday.

49M is endorsed by government and business partners and urges South Africans to reduce their current energy consumption by at least 10%, by changing the way they use electricity. The initiative aims to drive energy savings as a national culture and aid South Africa in creating a sustainable future.

Pieter Pretorius, 49M Project Manager and Senior Manager: Strategic Marketing at Eskom, said saving energy was about changing attitudes and committing to small changes in everyday life.

"We are thrilled to have T-Systems on board. This partnership is a reinforcement of our commitment to acknowledge the role played by our partners in managing energy usage. We commend T-Systems for heeding the call to save energy in their business," said Pretorius.

Since its launch a year ago, 49M has signed over 60 partners who have pledged their support to the campaign. More than 14% of these partners are corporate companies listed in the JSE. 49M also has the support of the country's top 10 environmental non-government organisations.

Partners of 49M include Denel; Transnet; Eskom Anglo American and MTN. - SAnews.gov.za