Spectra Energy | Support and Engage Our Communities

Support and Engage Our Communities

We are privileged to be part of the fabric of numerous communities across North America. As a company that fully embraces responsible stewardship, we enthusiastically support employee volunteerism and provide charitable contributions that are strategically chosen to offer the greatest sustainable benefits to the communities where we work and live. Our business is to deliver cost-efficient, clean-burning natural gas to fuel economies, and we are committed to enriching the quality of life in the communities where we operate and where our employees live.

We made measureable progress in 2009 in our efforts to support and sustain our communities, and have formed action plans taking us into 2010 and beyond. Our focus will continue to be on investing in education, workforce development, community vitality, and employee support and volunteerism.

Local Economic Development
We play a significant role in local economic development by providing access to natural gas that supplies vital energy needed for growth. We deliver natural gas to communities in western Canada and in major regions of the United States, while our distribution business serves over 1.3 million customers in more than 400 communities in Ontario. We also contribute to local economic health through the jobs we provide, the goods and services we purchase, and the taxes we pay. <Read more>

Community Stewardship
For Spectra Energy, community stewardship means being economically, environmentally and socially responsible in the communities we serve across all of our businesses. We work closely with stakeholders in areas affected by our projects; we also strive to create mutually beneficial relationships with communities such as the Aboriginal people in Canada. We foster long-term relationships built on trust and respect. <Read more>

Strategic Giving
In 2009, Spectra Energy gave back more than $7.5 million to the communities where we live and work through our philanthropic programs. In addition to making financial contributions, supporting communities means giving of our time and talent. Our investments in sustainable benefits to our communities and stakeholders will enable Spectra Energy to realize our vision of becoming the “partner of choice” for our communities and the “employer of choice” for individuals. <Read more>

The Sustainability Performance Scorecard reports the progress made on our commitments. The table also highlights our commitment focus areas and planned next steps.

Maintain commitment to philanthropy and employee volunteerism

Philanthropic contributions have increased every year. A strategic review of community relations and corporate philanthropy in 2009 resulted in strengthening our programs.

Develop metrics to assess the impact of contributions

Performance metrics for community relations and corporate philanthropy were developed in conjunction with the 2009 strategic review. Metrics will be implemented in 2010.

Implement the integrated preparedness program

Our integrated preparedness program is fully implemented; regular training and drills ensure preparedness. In 2008, we successfully responded to two hurricanes and minimized disruptions.

Advance supplier diversity program

We purchased $60 million of goods and services from diverse suppliers in 2009. Where appropriate, we work with diverse suppliers to help build their capacity to meet our standards

Next Steps
Contribute lasting value to communities by implementing the strategic plan for corporate philanthropy in 2010 and beyond.

Union Gas will progress its Demand Side Management programs for low-income retail customers targeting conservation of natural gas, water and electricity use.

Successfully launch a program to train our employees to be ambassadors for Spectra Energy.

Further progress the supplier diversity program; implement new supply chain sustainability benefit tracking process.

Demonstrate that Spectra Energy is always ready to respond by continuously improving our integrated preparedness program in cooperation with local communities.

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