Infrastructure
| Sector | Infrastructure |
| Sub-sector | Utilities |
| Location | Germany |
Although new design and construction methods are helping to create more sustainable buildings, significant investment is required to enhance the energy efficiency of established properties to help meet global emissions reduction targets.
As one of the leaders in developing quality technologies across energy and water measurement, billing and management since the early 1950s – Techem was enabling homeowners, landlords and tenants to reduce their energy consumption and bills.
At the turn of the century, Techem’s suite of innovative consumption reduction products saw it become a market leader in Germany.
Recognising an opportunity to further develop Techem’s services and reach, a Macquarie Asset Management managed fund acquired 100 per cent of Techem between 2006 and 2009 through a take-private process and delisted the business from the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.
Techem also expanded its service offering to provide more sustainable heat supply solutions, enhanced fire protection monitoring and products to improve drinking water quality.
In addition to enabling greater awareness around the efficient use of energy and water amongst its customers, Techem also recognised that it had a responsibility to lead by example by promoting environmental sustainability amongst its workforce.
The business ensured that the operations across its 50 branch offices around Germany were powered with certified green electricity. Utilising innovative building design, Techem improved its electricity usage and configured heating and cooling systems to reduce waste.
Outside of its offices, Techem also significantly expanded the use of hybrid and electric mobility solutions in its operations and maintenance fleet. Techem’s more than 3,500 staff were given access to company bicycles and were actively encouraged to utilise public transport on their commute and during business hours.
Outcome
At the time of Macquarie’s divestment, Techem had approximately 51 million devices servicing 11 million dwellings across 20 countries.2
Importantly, Techem’s growth during Macquarie’s period of ownership has had a significant impact on advancing environmental sustainability, with its products and services helping to avoid a significant amount of CO2 emissions each year.
Macquarie provided great support in developing Techem into a global industry leader. Its international network and operational expertise helped us to transform the company into what it is today.”
Frank Hyldmar
Former Chief Executive Officer
Techem
All information current as at 31 March 2019, unless otherwise stated.
