Electricity (UK Grid) emission factors
The UK electricity grid emission factor represents the average carbon intensity of electricity delivered through the national grid. As of the latest DESNZ data, the UK grid factor is approximately 0.207 kg CO₂e per kWh (location-based). This figure has fallen steadily as renewable generation has displaced coal and gas. Market-based factors vary depending on the tariff and whether it is backed by REGOs (Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin).
Why it matters for carbon reporting
Electricity consumption is the primary driver of Scope 2 emissions for most businesses. Using the correct, current grid factor is essential for accurate carbon reporting. The distinction between location-based and market-based methods affects reported figures significantly, and most reporting frameworks require disclosure of both.
Practical example
An office-based company consuming 150,000 kWh per year calculates Scope 2 using the DESNZ location-based factor: 150,000 x 0.207 = 31.05 tCO₂e. After switching to a REGO-backed 100% renewable tariff, its market-based Scope 2 drops to near zero while the location-based figure remains at 31 tCO₂e.
How to reduce electricity (uk grid) emissions
- 1Switch to a REGO-backed 100% renewable electricity tariff
- 2Reduce total electricity consumption through efficiency measures
- 3Consider on-site solar generation to offset grid consumption
- 4Report both location-based and market-based figures for transparency
Sample emission factors
View allGrid Electricity — ASCC Alaska Grid (AKGD)
eGRID subregion emission factor — ASCC Alaska Grid
Grid Electricity — Uzbekistan (2008)
Power sector CO2 intensity for Uzbekistan in 2008
Grid Electricity — Kyrgyzstan (2001)
Power sector CO2 intensity for Kyrgyzstan in 2001
Grid Electricity — Thailand (2009)
Power sector CO2 intensity for Thailand in 2009
Grid Electricity — Ecuador (2003)
Power sector CO2 intensity for Ecuador in 2003
Grid Electricity — Lebanon (2022)
Power sector CO2 intensity for Lebanon in 2022
Grid Electricity — Belarus (2015)
Power sector CO2 intensity for Belarus in 2015
Grid Electricity — Ghana (2018)
Power sector CO2 intensity for Ghana in 2018
Showing 8 of 9,211 matching factors. Search all factors in the Data Explorer
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