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2016 ACTIVITY AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT REPORT

W ithin the value chain, Rexel is on the cut- ting edge of market trends. The Group helps installers to

master new technical solutions and relays leading manufacturers innovations. By broadening its expertise with innovative solutions, Rexel enables its customers to enter new markets, such as electric mobil- ity or energy auditing.

ACCOMPANYING OUR CUSTOMERS IN GROWING MARKETS As an example, the services and infrastruc- tures designed for electric vehicles repre- sent a fast-growing, fast-changing mar- ket. In order to enable its customers to efficiently operate in this market, Rexel develops high value-added solutions. In 2016, at the Swedish Schneider Elec- tric HQ near Stockholm, Rexel Energy Solutions in Sweden which specializes in solar PV implemented a customized installation: a solar charging station for electric vehicles dependent on the entire electrical network of the building, which was used as a virtual energy storage unit. When there is no electric vehicle charg- ing, the electricity produced by solar panels is stored or used to power the HQ offices, from lighting to computers. When a vehicle is plugged in, the stored energy is redirected toward the charging station via the electrical network. The car can therefore be fully charged, with no car- bon footprint, even in winter.

DEVELOPING NEW SKILLS Committed to offering its customers ever greater expertise and service, Rexel accompanies them throughout their projects,

supporting them from the design phase to the rollout. In the field of energy audits and renovation, which requires collecting pre- cise data, harnessing advanced technical skills and using an efficient analytical approach, Rexel facilitates the task of building managers in France via its design consultancy, Inoveha. Specializing in energy audits for the col- lective residential market, it conducts a full analysis of the factors affecting a building s energy performance and its ten- ants comfort and makes renovation rec- ommendations, all while accompanying the manager throughout the renovation process. A technician goes to the site, collects all the specific data concerning the insulation, equipment, carpentry or the materials used, and provides a com- plete energy assessment. Using thermal modeling tools, Inoveha creates several optimization and renovation scenarios taking into account technical and financial constraints as well as environmental, economic, or even esthetic impacts, and finally, makes recommendations destined to improve the building s energy consump- tion and reduce its energy bill, all while ensuring its tenants comfort.

CAPITALIZING ON DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY TO INNOVATE New technologies enable Rexel to design and offer its customers high value-added tools that are increasingly user-friendly. Available in several European countries in- cluding France, Esabora is a software suite developed by Rexel Digital Applications. Designed for independent contractors and small and medium-size companies, this solution increases their efficiency and credibility. The suite includes Vesta,