Emissions Reporting
Scope 2 Emissions Examples for Small Businesses
Practical Scope 2 emissions examples for small businesses, including purchased electricity, reporting methods, electricity factors, and monthly tracking.
Scope 2 emissions come from purchased electricity, steam, heating, or cooling used by a business. For many small businesses, purchased electricity is the main Scope 2 source and one of the easiest places to begin carbon reporting.
Purchased electricity from the grid
The most common Scope 2 example is electricity purchased from the grid and used in an office, shop, workshop, warehouse, clinic, restaurant, or other facility.
The business records the electricity consumed during the reporting month, usually in kWh, and applies a matching electricity emission factor.
Multiple locations or meters
If a business has several locations, each site may have its own electricity bill or meter. The team can combine the total kWh for the reporting month if the same factor is appropriate, or keep records separate for clearer review.
Clear location and meter records make future reporting easier.
Location-based and market-based reporting
Some businesses may use a location-based factor that reflects the grid, while others may have supplier-specific or market-based information. The selected method should match the factor being used.
Showing the reporting method and factor makes the Scope 2 result easier to explain.
Why monthly electricity tracking helps
Monthly Scope 2 tracking can reveal seasonal use, operating changes, equipment issues, or changes in business activity.
It also makes electricity-related emissions easier to compare with fuel-related emissions over time.
Final takeaway
Scope 2 reporting for small businesses usually begins with purchased electricity. Clear kWh records, matching factors, and consistent monthly reporting make the result easier to trust and manage.