HANOVER, August 1, 2013 – Johnson Controls Power Solutions unveiled a newly remodeled European headquarters today. The building meets the standards for LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Certifiication and underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability.
The opening was attended by Lower Saxony Prime Minister Stephan Weil, a top government official in the region, along with Power Solutions President Brian Kesseler.
Designed in conjunction with Johnson Controls Building Efficiency specialists, the new headquarters will consume 34% less water and 37% less energy than the previous headquarters, reducing CO2 emissions by a quarter.
Sustainability and Functionality
The renovated space was built with individual employee sustainability in mind. Parking spaces are equipped with charging stations for electric cars and e-bikes. Showers and changing rooms are available for employees who bike to work.
The building’s sustainability improvements reflect an overall effort by Power Solutions to reduce emissions.
“Since 2008, through a number of energy-saving projects, we have saved 15 percent in the energy used to manufacture a standard battery,” said Holger Jetses, European head of Johnson Controls Power Solutions.
“Over the next five years, we intend to increase these savings. With the renovation project, Johnson Controls is making a substantial investment in protecting the environment and preserving natural resources,” Jetses said.
Inside, the renovated space is designed to foster creativity and collaboration. The layout will be a mix of open-plan offices, individual offices and conference rooms.
Seven large kitchens have been outfitted with bar furniture to facilitate communication.
In addition, a newly created atrium in the interior courtyard will provide a quiet space for work and contemplation.
Three hundred employees work at the Power Solutions Hanover office, overseeing the business unit’s European operations.
About Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 170,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful. In 2013, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the #14 company in its annual “100 Best Corporate Citizens” list. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.
About Johnson Controls Power Solutions
Johnson Controls Power Solutions is the global leader in lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for Start-Stop, hybrid and electric vehicles. Our 50 manufacturing, recycling and distribution centers supply more than one-third of the world's lead-acid batteries to major automakers and aftermarket retailers. Through our innovations we are building the advanced battery industry for hybrid and electric vehicles. We were the first company in the world to produce lithium-ion batteries for mass-production hybrid vehicles. Our commitment to sustainability is evidenced by our world-class technology, manufacturing and recycling capabilities.