Mastering GHG emissions reporting is crucial in achieving sustainability targets and reducing carbon footprints.
The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) is a mandatory government scheme that requires businesses (almost 12,000 organisations are eligible) to identify energy-saving opportunities. UK businesses of a certain size must audit their energy use every four years to identify potential energy-saving measures. Phase 4 is underway, with the first reporting deadline set for 5th December 2024, just six months after the Phase 3 deadline. Unlike previous phases, annual submissions to the Environment Agency (EA) are now required, making it essential for businesses to promptly adapt to these new requirements.
EP&T Global's EDGE platform is an ideal solution for these challenges.
It identifies inefficiencies and provides comprehensive data for accurate emissions reporting. By covering Scope 1, 2, 3, and providing the data insights required for the new Phase 4 Action Plan, EDGE empowers businesses to lead in environmental responsibility and sustainability efforts.
Over the years, legislative changes have been introduced to enhance the quality of ESOS reporting and promote the implementation of recommended energy-saving measures. Companies must now establish an Action Plan and report on their progress annually. These initiatives will bolster energy efficiency narratives within the Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting (SECR) and help shape broader decarbonisation strategies.
But what do these changes mean for businesses, and how can emissions be effectively monitored?
We first need to explain the 'scopes'…
Scope 1 emissions are the direct emissions from sources owned or controlled by a company. These include emissions from company vehicles, on-site fuel combustion, and refrigeration and air conditioning equipment emissions. Managing Scope 1 emissions is 'relatively' straightforward as businesses have direct control over these sources.
Scope 2 emissions are indirect GHG emissions from purchased electricity, steam, heating, and cooling. These emissions occur at the facility where the energy is generated but are accounted for by the business using that energy.
Scope 3 encompasses all other indirect emissions in a company's value chain. This includes upstream activities, such as the production and transportation of purchased goods and services, and downstream activities, such as product use and waste disposal. Given that Scope 3 emissions can account for up to 95% of a company's total carbon footprint, accurate reporting and reduction strategies are crucial.
For ESOS Phase 4, it’s no longer a matter of reporting on each of the scope emissions as businesses must now act on the advice of the recently submitted ESOS 3 and provide evidence by way of an Action Plan showing evidence of commitment and improvement to energy efficient operations and processes.
The EDGE Advantage
EP&T Global's EDGE platform is uniquely positioned to support comprehensive emissions reporting and reduction strategies across all scopes. By providing real-time data and actionable insights, EDGE enables businesses to:
For ESOS 3:
- Monitor and reduce direct emissions (Scope 1)
- Manage and optimise energy consumption (Scope 2)
- Accurately report and address value chain emissions (Scope 3)
For ESOS 4:
- Identify and quantify emissions reduction contributions
In an era where sustainability is not just a corporate responsibility but a competitive advantage, leveraging advanced technology like the EDGE platform is essential for businesses committed to achieving their environmental goals.
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