Case study

Running a circularity diagnostic for an energy distribution player

Summary

We supported a leading player in energy distribution networks in accelerating and sharpening its circular strategy.

Challenge

Take stock of the circular economy strategy and map out future opportunities.

Industry

Energy

Market

Energy distribution

Details

From analysis to field deployment.

Challenge

The aim of the study was to take stock of the circular economy strategy, set out the main priorities and map out future opportunities. The analysis was carried out at three levels:

  • Identification of the circular economy issues and opportunities at cross-company level and across 3 representative sites.
  • Co-design and prioritisation of circular solutions.
  • Awareness-raising and engagement of the regions and other stakeholders to accelerate the energy and environmental transition.

Solution

  • Qualitative data collection: 12 cross-company and field interviews, 3 on-site immersions.
  • Quantitative data collection: an inventory of inputs and outputs across the 3 sites visited and carbon quantification.
  • An outside-in findings report based on the data analysis: identification of good practices, pain points and 5 major issues.
  • 4 workshops on prioritisation and possible improvements, at both strategic and operational level.
  • Drafting of specification criteria for a reuse platform tender.
  • Drafting of a guide and a set of model clauses to embed the circular economy in the CSR criteria required in tenders and contracts.

Circul’R expertise involved

Strategy & Indicators

Discover our expertise

Results

Improvement points identified

~80

Major workstreams prioritised

14

Interviews conducted

12

Deliverables:

  • ~80 circular improvement points identified.
  • 14 major workstreams prioritised.
  • 1 initial scoping of a reuse platform project: identification of criteria to feed a tender for an equipment reuse platform.
  • 1 circular guide and 1 set of model clauses complementing the CSR criteria, for specifiers and buyers.

FAQ

What you need to know about us.

What is Circul'R?

Circul'R is a consulting firm specializing in the circular economy. Since 2016, we have supported over 150 large companies and public entities through consulting projects, sector coalitions, training programs, and the Circul'R Club.

How does Circul'R differ from a generalist CSR consulting firm?

Unlike a generalist CSR firm, Circul'R has specialized exclusively in the circular economy since 2016. This cross-functional expertise—covering supply chains, regulations (AGEC, EPR, ESPR), and business models—allows us to turn circularity into a measurable competitive advantage, including impact reduction, resource security, compliance, and new growth drivers.

Who is Circul'R for?

Circul'R advises large private companies—including many CAC 40 and SBF 120 groups—on strategic decisions across all sectors. We also support organizations that implement public circular economy policies, such as eco-organizations, agencies, donors, and local authorities.

What services does Circul'R offer?

Circul'R offers four complementary services: bespoke consulting to structure your circular strategy, sector-specific coalitions to solve shared business challenges, training programs to build circular economy skills, and the Circul'R Club, a network for companies committed to the circular transition.

What is Circul'R's expertise regarding circular economy regulations (EPR, AGEC, CSRD)?

Circul'R guides clients through the entire French and European regulatory framework for the circular economy, including the AGEC law, EPR schemes, and CSRD, as well as recent European legislation like the PPWR, ESPR, and CRMA. We translate these obligations into operational roadmaps, turning compliance requirements into strategic advantages.

What is the process for a consulting project with Circul'R?

A project begins with a diagnostic of your circular challenges, covering areas like supply, eco-design, business models, and regulations. Circul'R then builds a prioritized, quantified roadmap and supports the operational deployment of selected actions, right through to impact measurement and continuous trajectory adjustment.

How do you measure the results of your projects?

We define tailored circularity indicators upfront—such as materials saved, reuse rates, footprint reduction, and value generated—and track their progress throughout the project to ensure concrete business and environmental results.

Do you work only in France or internationally as well?

Based in Paris, Circul'R operates primarily in France and Europe. Internationally, we support cooperation projects, including sharing French expertise on EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) and assisting donors with their circular transition programs in emerging countries, leveraging a network of operational partners and sector experts.

How do I get started with Circul'R?

Contact the team via our website: Circul'R will analyze your challenges and propose the right solution—whether through consulting, joining a coalition, taking a training course, or becoming a Club member—to accelerate your transition to a circular economy.

Not a member of the Circul'R Club yet?

Join an exclusive circle of decision-makers committed to the circular transition. A unique space for peer-to-peer sharing to decode market challenges, anticipate regulatory changes, and overcome operational barriers.

Let's make the circular economy your strategic advantage.

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