Our Business Practices

We procure in an open and ethical manner in pursuit of the best value for our customers. For commercial dealings with suppliers, we strictly follow prescribed procedures. These focus on assessment of price, quality, support network, reliability and competitive commercial and technical attributes. All suppliers are treated equally and no preference is given in their selection. In 2010, approximately 60% of our purchases of goods and services were from locally based suppliers. These are defined as companies whose addresses are in China covering the Hong Kong SAR.

Extending Our Influence

We believe we have a role to play in influencing our suppliers to adopt CSR practices in their operations. Just as we embrace sustainable development, we expect our suppliers to walk hand in hand with us. A Recognised Tenderers Register (RTR) of companies is maintained for those eligible to be invited to tender for our contracts. Only companies with adequate technical capabilities, financial stability and commercial merits are eligible. The RTR is reviewed from time to time.

We also expect our suppliers to respect and act in accordance with our Code of Practice for Suppliers. This outlines the ethical, human and labour rights, and the health and safety and environmental protection standards expected of them. We also expect suppliers to communicate this with their employees and encourage them to report their CSR performance and influence the business partners in their supply chains to follow the Code as far as practicable. Meanwhile, we have also put in place a Green Purchasing Guideline for reference by individual business units of the Company.

A CSR Seminar for Suppliers & Contractors was held in November 2010 to introduce our Code of Practice for Suppliers and share the CSR practices of our business partners in the supply chain.

"CSR Seminar for Suppliers and Contractors" to share CSR best practices.

To strengthen the Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) awareness of our employees and business partners, a Safety, Health & Environmental Forum was organised at Lamma Power Station on 10 August 2010. Speakers from HK Electric and contractors gave presentations on topics including green initiatives, safety innovations, safety culture and plant management to more than 60 participants. This forum fosters communication between contractors and us. Theme talks and special campaigns were also organised to nurture the EHS culture in the Company.

A forum on environmental awareness is a way to share our environmental, health and safety values with staff and contractors.