Skidmore, Owings and Merrill LLP, commonly known as SOM, is a leading American architecture, engineering, and urban planning firm. Founded in 1936, the company has a rich history of designing iconic buildings and structures that have shaped the skylines of cities around the world. With a workforce of over 1,500 professionals, SOM has completed more than 10,000 projects in over 50 countries. The company's commitment to sustainability and decarbonisation is evident in its approach to design and operations.

SOM's commitment to decarbonisation is reflected in its corporate energy strategy, which focuses on reducing the carbon footprint of its operations and projects. The company has set ambitious targets to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency, and promote renewable energy. SOM's energy management program includes a range of initiatives, such as energy audits, retrofits, and the use of renewable energy sources.

One of the key initiatives that SOM has undertaken to reduce its carbon footprint is the implementation of a corporate power purchase agreement (PPA) for renewable energy. A PPA is a long-term contract between a company and a renewable energy supplier, which guarantees a fixed price for the electricity generated by the supplier. By entering into a PPA, SOM is able to source a significant portion of its electricity from renewable sources, such as wind and solar, thereby reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and lowering its carbon emissions.

SOM's commitment to renewable energy is also evident in its design projects. The company has designed several buildings that incorporate renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems. For example, the Pearl River Tower in Guangzhou, China, is a 71-story skyscraper that features a range of sustainable design features, including a double-skin facade, wind turbines, and solar panels. The building is designed to generate more energy than it consumes, making it a net-zero energy building.

SOM's approach to sustainable design also includes a focus on energy efficiency. The company has developed a range of innovative design strategies to reduce the energy consumption of its buildings, such as passive solar design, daylighting, and natural ventilation. For example, the New United States Courthouse in Los Angeles, California, is designed to be one of the most energy-efficient courthouses in the country. The building features a range of sustainable design features, such as a high-performance facade, energy-efficient lighting, and a rainwater harvesting system.

In addition to its commitment to decarbonisation and renewable energy, SOM is also focused on reducing the environmental impact of its operations. The company has implemented a range of initiatives to reduce waste, conserve water, and promote sustainable transportation. For example, SOM's New York office has achieved LEED Platinum certification, the highest level of certification for sustainable buildings. The office features a range of sustainable design features, such as a green roof, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient lighting.

SOM's commitment to sustainability and decarbonisation is not only reflected in its operations and design projects but also in its corporate culture. The company has a dedicated sustainability team that works to promote sustainable practices throughout the organization. SOM also participates in a range of sustainability initiatives and partnerships, such as the AIA 2030 Commitment and the United Nations Global Compact.

In conclusion, Skidmore, Owings and Merrill LLP is a leading American architecture, engineering, and urban planning firm that is committed to sustainability and decarbonisation. The company's focus on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable design is evident in its operations and design projects. SOM's corporate energy strategy, including its use of corporate PPAs for renewable energy, is a model for other companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint. With its rich history of iconic buildings and structures, SOM is poised to continue shaping the skylines of cities around the world while also promoting a more sustainable future.