Scope 2 - Emissions that result from the consumption of purchased energy

Modified on Sat, 14 Sep, 2024 at 9:58 PM

Scope 2 emissions include indirect greenhouse gas emissions that result from the consumption of purchased energy. This energy is not produced by the company itself but is sourced externally and used within the company. The main source of Scope 2 emissions is electricity consumption, but it also includes district heating, district cooling, and steam. The emissions occur during the generation of this energy by the supplier.


Scope 2 emissions are divided into two categories:

  • Location-Based: Emissions based on the average emissions factor of the electricity grid from which the energy is sourced.
  • Market-Based: Emissions based on the specific emissions factors of the energy sources the company has contractually agreed upon (e.g., green energy certificates).

More information on market-based and location-based emissions can be found here.


Relevant Activities for Scope 2 Emissions:


To identify your company's Scope 2 emissions, you should examine the following activities and areas:

  • Purchased electricity consumption: The electricity your company buys from external energy providers and uses to operate plants, office buildings, lighting, machinery, and equipment.
  • Purchased district heating/cooling: The use of district heating or cooling for heating or cooling buildings and processes.
  • Purchased steam: The consumption of steam supplied by an external provider, used for industrial processes, heating, or other purposes.


Where can I find data on my energy consumption?


To calculate Scope 2 emissions, you need accurate data on your energy consumption. This information can typically be found in the following sources:

  • Energy supplier invoices: Your electricity, district heating, district cooling, and steam invoices contain detailed information about the amount of energy purchased and the corresponding emissions factors needed for emission calculations.
  • Energy control systems: Integrated energy control systems or smart metering that monitor and log energy consumption in real time can provide valuable data for calculating Scope 2 emissions.
  • Contracts with energy suppliers: Contracts or agreements with energy suppliers, especially those involving renewable energy sources, often include information about the specific emissions factor of the energy purchased.
  • Environmental reports: Annual reports or sustainability reports in which your company documents its energy consumption and corresponding emissions.

Was this article helpful?

That’s Great!

Thank you for your feedback

Sorry! We couldn't be helpful

Thank you for your feedback

Let us know how can we improve this article!

Select at least one of the reasons
CAPTCHA verification is required.

Feedback sent

We appreciate your effort and will try to fix the article