Last updated: 21.08.2024

<aside> 💡 High-Level Description:

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) in the United Kingdom has developed a comprehensive methodology for calculating carbon emissions from electricity consumption. DEFRA's approach is rooted in providing accurate and standardized emissions factors that reflect the carbon intensity of electricity used in various sectors. The methodology accounts for the mix of energy sources (renewable, nuclear, and fossil fuels) used in electricity generation and adjusts annually to reflect changes in the energy grid's composition. This ensures that the emissions factors are up-to-date and align with the latest developments in energy production and consumption patterns.

In the electricity sector, DEFRA's methodology is particularly crucial for businesses and organizations looking to measure and reduce their carbon footprint. By applying DEFRA’s emissions factors, entities can calculate their indirect (Scope 2) emissions from purchased electricity with precision. This data is essential for reporting purposes, especially for compliance with regulatory frameworks such as the UK's Mandatory Greenhouse Gas Reporting or the Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) Energy Efficiency Scheme. Additionally, the methodology supports companies in setting and achieving carbon reduction targets by offering clear insights into the impact of their electricity usage on overall emissions.

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Equation

co2_in_g = amount * co2_in_g_per_unit

API request

{
  "expand": [
    "items"
  ],
  "items": [
    {
      "type": "electricity",
      "methodology": "DEFRA",
      "external_reference": "string",
      "energy_in_kwh": 643
    }
  ]
}

Bibliography