Many of Fingrid’s investment projects are executed on the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) principle with around 15 main partners, with the contracts also including procurement of materials. Fingrid procures some of the materials, such as transformers and conductors, itself directly. Precise quality criteria area always defined for partners and deliveries.
“From 2016 to 2019, we conducted 40 audits around the world. We aim to have audited 90 per cent of our goods suppliers by 2025,” says Timo Kiiveri, Senior Vice President, Asset Management, at Fingrid.
The audits reveal the partner’s commitment to the common goal. The areas under examination include competences, management, occupational safety, processes, environmental matters and quality management. Fingrid’s audits are conducted by a global partner.
In Kiiveri’s assessment, the various parties understand the importance of auditing. Auditing reinforces corporate responsibility and supports the process of developing matters and getting everything in good order.
“For example, when an Indian company sees that they meet our criteria, they gain access to a larger market. For us, a responsible operating method is a small but genuine way of making the world a better place.”
According to Kiiveri, Finnish companies do not need to shy away from demanding that global companies operate responsibly. Similarly, when Fingrid is able to demonstrate that it has a comprehensive, audited network of partners, it inspires trust, both in Finland and internationally.
