Code of Conduct
Norsk Renewables’ commitment to corporate ethics and personal integrity.
This document is a statement of Norsk Renewables’ principles of doing business the right way. All employees, including temporary personnel, board members, directors, agents and subcontractors of Norsk Renewables and its subsidiaries are required to comply with all aspects of the code. You are required to address any questions or concerns related to proper conduct with your immediate superior or other appropriate persons.
It is vital that each of us makes a commitment to contributing to the success and reputation of Norsk Renewables by acting according to the highest standard of ethical business conduct.
This Code of Conduct will be reviewed and signed at least annually to ensure relevance and commitment.
Torbjørn Elliot Kirkeby-Garstad
CEO
Oslo, Norway / 2024-01-25
1. Introduction
Norsk Renewables is committed to work in accordance with responsible, ethical and sound business principles. The Code of Conduct builds on our values and principles. The Code of Conduct provides framework for responsible behavior but is not exhaustive. The ultimate responsibility to act in accordance with law and ethics will always remain an individual responsibility.
2. Responsibility
The Code of Conduct applies to all employees, including temporary personnel, board members, directors, agents and subcontractors of Norsk Renewables AS and its subsidiaries.
Violation of this Code of Conduct will not be tolerated and may lead to internal disciplinary action, dismissal or even criminal prosecution. Any concerns or uncertainties as to whether an activity or action follows this Code of Conduct should be raised with your immediate superior or management in Norsk Renewables. Should an improper practice or incident occur, Norsk Renewables is committed to making necessary corrections and to take necessary actions to prevent recurrence.
3. Laws and regulations
3.1. General
You shall comply with all applicable laws and regulations when conducting business on behalf of Norsk Renewables. You shall not assist in breach of laws by business associates, whether it constitutes an illegal act for the Company or yourself as an individual.
In addition, all employees shall comply with all relevant internal governing documents and Company policies.
3.2. Bribes, Gifts, Favors
You shall not offer cash, gifts or any undue advantage to a public official, a business associate or a third party to obtain or retain business or to obtain a favor or other advantage. Gifts or other favors to and from business associates may be allowed provided they have a minimal economical value, are infrequent, not intended to influence any decision and clearly appropriate in the circumstances. Events for customers shall always have a specific and relevant business purpose and can only be accepted if they are reasonable and appropriate with respect to both value and frequency. Participation in such events by others shall comply with the same principles. If you are offered or have received such favors or gifts contrary to acceptable standards you shall, without delay, notify your immediate superior.
3.3. Anti-Trust
You shall comply with the antitrust and competition laws applicable. You should seek advice from Norsk Renewables Management or legal affairs in all matters involving risk of antitrust exposure for Norsk Renewables, yourself or any of your reports.
3.4. Accurate Financial Records
Norsk Renewables ‘financial records are crucial for the management of the business. Therefore, Norsk Renewables is committed to complete accuracy in all financial records. Employees involved in financial transactions or accounting shall ensure that all transactions are fully and accurately documented and recorded in accordance with applicable law, good accounting practice and internal requirements. False or misleading entries are under no circumstance acceptable.
4. Conflicts of interest
Employees and board members shall not seek to obtain advantages for themselves or others that are improper or may harm Norsk Renewables’ interests. No one should take part in or seek to influence a decision if this may give rise to an actual or perceived conflict of interest.
Particular attention should be given to situations where the employee or board member or anyone closely related has a personal interest in the matter, economic or otherwise, directly or indirectly. Before engaging in any activity that may be perceived to advance the interests of a competitor or a supplier (or other business associates) at the expense of Norsk Renewables’ interests, including serving on the board of such company, you shall consult with your immediate superior. Employees or board members are not allowed to market products or services that are in direct competition with Norsk Renewables’ business activities or interests. If you become aware of a potential conflict of interest you shall, without delay, notify your immediate superior. Conflicts of interest may not always be clear-cut, so if you are uncertain, you should consult your immediate superior or the legal department of Norsk Renewables.
5. Confidentiality
Information, intellectual property rights, proprietary rights and innovative ideas are valuable Norsk Renewables assets. These intangible assets must be appropriately managed and protected. Any and all intellectual property rights conceived by an employee during the term of his/her employment that may be related to or possibly be used in Norsk Renewables’ operations or business shall be the property of Norsk Renewables. Information other than general business knowledge and work experience, that becomes known to you regarding performance of your work, shall be regarded as confidential and treated as such. All employees shall act responsibly and with caution to protect buildings, machinery, equipment and other property from misuse, theft, damage or destruction. The use of Company time, materials, financial assets or facilities for purposes not directly related to Company business is prohibited without authorization from a relevant Norsk Renewables representative. The same applies to the removal or borrowing of Company assets without permission.
6. Equal opportunities
Norsk Renewables acts in a socially responsible manner and respects the lawful customs and traditions of the countries in which we operate. All employees and board members are expected to behave in an impeccable manner towards business associates, colleagues and others. This includes respect towards foreign cultures and customs at the same time as common Norsk Renewables standards are explained and promoted. We support fundamental human rights and avoid participating in any business activities that may compromise human rights including child labor and forced labor. We support efforts to eliminate corruption and financial crime.
Norsk Renewables aims for a workplace characterized by diversity and equal opportunities. Norsk Renewables does not accept any form of harassment or discrimination based on gender, age, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious belief, social group or political opinion.
7. HSE and business conduct
Norsk Renewables puts safety first and follows the strategy that all accidents, injuries and occupational illnesses are preventable. Norsk Renewables maintains high standards for environmental performance. We seek to follow these high standards irrespective of instances where less stringent national regulations exist. We are committed to minimizing the impact of our businesses on the environment.
8. Reporting of concerns
Every employee has an obligation to report known or suspected violations of this Code of Conduct. Failure to report such violations is a violation of the Code of Conduct. Norsk Renewables reserves the right to pursue disciplinary or legal action as appropriate. Depending on the violation, Norsk Renewables may be required to report the violation to enforcement authorities. Norsk Renewables supports open discussions about responsible conduct in an improvement-oriented and nonbureaucratic way. Employees should usually discuss any concerns or complaints with their immediate superiors, line managers or HR within the local organizations. Complaints may be filed on an anonymous basis. If you in good faith express a concern or complaint to a relevant body within Norsk Renewables concerning possible violation of law or Company policy, including this Code of Conduct, you shall be protected against sanctions from Norsk Renewables due to your report. It is a violation of this Code of Conduct to discriminate or harass anyone for making a good faith complaint or expressing concern.
