Scope 2 Emissions
Indirect emissions from purchased electricity, heat, steam, and cooling
What is Scope 2 Emissions?
Scope 2 emissions are indirect greenhouse gas emissions from the generation of purchased electricity, heat, steam, and cooling consumed by an organisation. While the actual emissions occur at the utility provider's facility, they are counted towards the purchasing organisation's carbon footprint.
Why It Matters for SECR
Scope 2 is mandatory for SECR reporting. For many service-based companies, Scope 2 can represent 90%+ of their carbon footprint. Reducing Scope 2 often means reducing energy costs.
Examples
- 1
Electricity purchased from the national grid for your offices
- 2
Heat purchased from a district heating scheme
- 3
Steam purchased for industrial processes
- 4
Chilled water purchased for air conditioning
SECR Reporting Requirements
SECR requires Scope 2 emissions reporting. Companies must use the location-based method (grid average) but may also report the market-based method if they purchase green tariffs or REGOs.
Related Terms
How Scope 2 Emissions Fits Into Your SECR Report
Understanding Scope 2 Emissions is essential for accurate SECR reporting. This concept appears throughout the reporting process—from data collection to final disclosure. Make sure your finance and sustainability teams have a shared understanding of this term.
For practical guidance on applying this concept, see our calculation guides or use the compliance checker to assess your specific situation.
Master SECR Terminology
Understanding the terminology is just the start. ComplyCarbon handles all the technical details—generating complete, compliant SECR reports with correct terminology throughout.
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