Vauban Infrastructure Partners has won the IJGlobal ESG Environment Award for the second time in a row, this year again being recognised for the trailblazer role it plays in the ESG field.

Having won this award last year, Vauban IP cements its ESG credentials with one of the independent panel of judges saying: “Vauban's dedication to sustainable practices and alignment with the Paris Agreement's objectives and investment track record are exemplary.”

Another judge said: “Vauban stands out for its strong processes and partnership with climate consulting leaders – plus the choice of auditing the data and process through SFDR report has been a strong sign of commitment for more transparent and robust ESG standards.”

Vauban IP is internationally recognised in the realm of environmental investment and climate strategies, guided by a resolute commitment to sustainability and a vision for a greener future having embedded ESG principles at the core of its operations and investment decisions.

At the heart of Vauban IP’s success lies its unwavering dedication to aligning its practices with the Paris Agreement's ambitious climate goals. By embracing the global call to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius, the company showcases its willingness to be an active participant in the fight against climate change.

The submission states: “One of the key pillars of Vauban IP's impressive ESG strategy is its responsible environmental investment approach. Through thorough analysis and due diligence, the company identifies and invests in projects and businesses that not only yield financial returns, but also contribute to positive environmental outcomes. By supporting ventures that champion renewable energy, resource efficiency, and sustainable technologies, Vauban IP demonstrates its active role in fostering a low-carbon future.

“Moreover, Vauban IP takes a proactive stance on climate risk mitigation. Understanding the profound impact that climate change can have on the global economy, the company incorporates climate risk assessments into its investment decision-making process. This strategic approach enables Vauban IP to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of climate risks and identify opportunities to future-proof its investments.

“Transparency and accountability are paramount to Vauban IP 's ESG journey. The company consistently provides transparent reporting on its environmental performance, climate-related initiatives, and progress towards its Paris Agreement-aligned targets. By doing so, Vauban IP invites stakeholders to join them on their sustainability journey and fosters trust with clients, investors, and communities alike.”

District heating

In the Vauban IP submission, the firm highlights 3 district heating projects as primary examples of its achievements in the environmental space – OsloFjörd Värme in Norway; Lockport in Spain; and the Cartier projects in the US.

Oslofjord Varme is the leading independent Norwegian district heating provider utilising heat pumps. The company achieved phase out of fossil fuel in the concessions’ perimeter. Capex and opex to phase out fossil fuel in 2024 was embedded in 2023-25 business plan.

Meanwhile, Lockport is a portfolio of 4 district heating networks in some of the coldest regions of Spain – Castilla y Leon, Madrid and Castilla La Mancha.

Vauban IP’s goal for 2023 is to pursue the connection of new clients to the networks, allowing a reduction in carbon emissions as Lockport’s district heating networks are mostly biomass fuelled.

Clients connected to the Lockport system replace their current heating solution, usually natural gas, fuel oil or sometimes even coal. For instance, Soria district heating connected Soria’s hospital to the network, allowing the hospital to be provided with low carbon heat.

On the Cartier portfolio, the company owns, operates and manages district energy networks in several US states – New Jersey, Michigan, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts.

Vauban's medium- to long-term ESG strategy is to go even further and to implement an ESG strategy that aims to decarbonise the portfolio beyond the intrinsic increased sustainability provided by district energy and engage in the communities as a socially responsible asset owner.

The team is working with the operator and Roland Berger on an in-depth analysis of all the assets to create a long-term action oriented ESG roadmap. The goal is to explore all solutions – new technologies, efficiency improvements, change of fuel with hydrogen and/or biogas etc. – and to assess their competitiveness and ability to be implemented.