Endesa aspires to be seen as involved in the social concerns of the countries in which it operates and as an indispensable partner in their economic, social and environmental progress.
To this end, the company implemented Country Plans during 2009 to adapt its operations to local needs. One of the basic characteristics of Endesa's identity is its commitment to society and it is therefore involved in local social cooperation, educational, cultural and environmental awareness raising initiatives, which comprise the four cornerstones of its social action strategy. In 2009, the company boosted its commitment to transparency. Dual reporting is provided for investments in community initiatives. On the one hand, using the Endesa system that is the company's own model that it has used since 2004, and, for the first time, using the London Benchmarking Group international standard.
The compromise is developed in the following points:
By 2012, Endesa aspires to be involved in the social concerns of the countries and regions in which it operates and an indispensable partner in their economic, social and environmental progress. Under the slogan, "Think globally and act locally", the company applies its corporate vision to local issues. This has been one of the defining characteristics of the company's identity since it was founded. Endesa contributes to local development in the following ways to raise its legitimacy in the regions in which it operates, primarily Latin America:
Roll-out of Country Plans in Latin America to adapt the company's operations to the needs and socio-economic characteristics of each area.
In Latin America, security of supply, excellence in operations, regulatory stability and collaboration in social issues, are particularly relevant.
Contributing to local development is part of Endesa's raison d'être. The company is aware of society's expectations and its responsibility as a supplier of a basic resource: electricity.
Endesa's commitment to the community is set out in the values assumed by the company in 1999, as well as in the seven sustainable development pledges assumed in 2003.
Endesa continues to contribute to social development via direct investment in local initiatives, enabling employees to dedicate more time and interest to corporate volunteer programmes; and a wide range of collaboration initiatives with groups, entities, organisations and institutional representatives in the communities in which its installations are located and where it conducts its supply and industrial activities.
In 2009, Endesa allocated Euro 39.2 million to conducting and promoting various social development projects, an amount equivalent to 1.64% of net profit from continued operations attributable to the company's shareholders.
Of this amount, 55% was earmarked for Latin America and 45% for Spain and Portugal.
Cooperative initiatives accounted for over half (51%) of social action investments. Cultural initiatives have decreased the most, falling from 28% in 2008 to 22%. Educational and socio-environmental initiatives remain stable.
Access to Contribution to social development
Cooperation
Focused on covering basic individual or group needs in the markets where the company is present, as well as fostering community development. In 2009, 52% of all initiatives were cooperation initiatives.
These activities are split into two sub-categories:
- Basic necessities, i.e. rural electrification, corporate volunteerism, responsible products and the integration of disabled people. Corporate volunteers play an important role in Endesa's social initiatives programme, not only because they contribute to developing the communities in which the company operates, but also because volunteers obtain a great deal of value from the experience. All this also trickles up to the entire organisation, positively affecting the working environment and performance.
- Cooperation in local development. Endesa drives initiatives for infrastructure development and other activities of social interest.
Educational
Endesa also works closely with the academic community. It has entered into agreements and directly participates in or promotes programmes at each level of education, from early years through to university and professional training. It is especially involved in education relating to energy and electricity, providing training for electricians or educating young people about energy efficiency. In 2009, 18% of Endesa’s total contribution to social development was earmarked for educational initiatives.
Cultural
Endesa is involved in conserving and promoting the local heritage and cultures in the areas in which it operates. In 2009, 22% of Endesa’s social action comprised activities in this area. A significant number of these activities are related with illuminating monuments or organising artistic and cultural events.
Socio-environmental
Endesa promotes awareness and values regarding environmental protection, protecting endangered flora and fauna, and repopulating and conserving areas of special ecological value. It also sponsors forums and conferences on the environment. In 2009, 8% of Endesa’s total contribution to social development was earmarked for socio-environmental initiatives.
Through its foundations, Endesa channels its work on research, cooperation in economic and social development initiatives and environmental protection programmes in the regions in Spain where it operates, the illumination of artistic/historic monuments and, lastly, cultural activities in its overseas areas, particularly Latin America.