10 Reasons to Track a Corporate Carbon Footprint
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In this article, we’ll explain what a corporate carbon footprint is, why it’s important, how it is measured, and reasons why your company should track it too.
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Our Guide to Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR)
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As businesses face increasing scrutiny over their environmental impact, compliance with the UK's Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) regulation has become essential. SECR aims to enhance climate transparency and drive energy efficiency improvements, positioning UK companies to address both legal requirements and stakeholder expectations. While this is a UK-specific regulation, understanding these requirements is valuable for US companies with UK operations or subsidiaries.
Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) is a mandatory UK regulation requiring qualifying companies to disclose their energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
This guide explains what SECR is, who needs to comply, and how to report accurately.
Note: This article reflects the latest SECR guidance and compliance expectations as of April 2025. For any updates, refer to the UK Government’s official SECR guidance.
This article explains what the SECR is, why it was introduced, who it applies to, and what it means for companies operating in the UK.
What is the UK’s Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting policy (SECR)?
“ The UK’s Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) regulation requires certain companies - such as quoted companies, large unquoted companies, and limited liability partnerships (LLPs) - to annually report their energy emissions and Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions This approach is similar to the SEC's proposed climate disclosure rules in the US, though with different specific requirements. ”
The UK's Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) policy was introduced on April 1st 2019 as a major step forward in enhancing corporate accountability for energy use and carbon emissions. Designed to simplify reporting requirements while expanding their scope, SECR replaced the Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) Energy Efficiency Scheme and brought many more businesses under its purview.
Unlike the CRC, which applied to fewer organizations, SECR mandates that approximately 11,900 large UK-based companies now disclose their annual energy use, carbon emissions, and any energy-efficiency measures they’ve implemented. This broader scope ensures greater transparency and incentivizes action across a wider range of industries.
SECR also aligns closely with the UK’s ambitious climate goals, including achieving net zero emissions by 2050. By requiring companies to report on their energy efficiency efforts, SECR supports the national transition to a low-carbon economy and provides investors with critical data to guide sustainable decision-making. This approach parallels the growing ESG disclosure momentum in the US, where investors are increasingly demanding similar transparency.
It’s important to note that SECR operates alongside, rather than replacing, other emissions reporting requirements, including:
- The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS): Focuses on energy audits and recommendations for large businesses. This is somewhat comparable to energy audit requirements in various US states.
- Climate Change Agreements (CCA) Scheme: Provides tax benefits for energy-intensive industries. This is similar to the tax incentives for energy efficiency available through the Inflation Reduction Act in the US.
- EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS): Targets carbon trading for certain sectors. This is similar to California's Cap-and-Trade program and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) in the northeastern US.
- Mandatory greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting for publicly quoted companies. The SEC's proposed climate disclosure rules would establish similar requirements for US public companies.
By modernizing and unifying reporting requirements, SECR makes it easier for businesses to integrate emissions tracking into their sustainability strategies, helping the UK move closer to its climate commitments.
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Relevance for US Companies
Although the SECR is a UK-based regulation, it still apples and can even be pivotal for US companies.
While SECR is a UK-specific regulation, its approach to emissions reporting illustrates the ongoing global trend toward greater corporate climate transparency.
US companies should monitor these developments closely, as it can help them to better understand how similar requirements may unfold – such as with new SEC proposals and state-level regulations.
Furthermore, US businesses with UK operations must make an effort to understand SECR compliance as it is essential to transparency and success.
By adopting comprehensive emissions tracking now, such as by drawing inspiration from oversees efforts such as the SECR – US companies can prepare for evolving regulatory landscapes while demonstrating environmental leadership to increasingly climate-conscious investors and consumers.
Why is carbon reporting (SECR) important?
The urgency is clear: climate change not only threatens the environment but poses a significant economic risk. Swiss Re, a leading reinsurance firm, projects that without decisive action, global GDP could shrink by up to 18% by 2050. For UK businesses, this makes transparency in energy use and carbon emissions not just a regulatory obligation but a competitive advantage. US businesses face similar concerns, with climate risk increasingly affecting investment decisions and corporate valuations.
Since its introduction in 2019, SECR has transformed how companies report on energy consumption and emissions. By expanding the scope of carbon accounting and modernising disclosure rules, it equips investors with the high-quality data they need to align financial and environmental considerations in their decisions. To find out if you are in compliance with the regulations, try our Legislation Checker. This is imperative for US companies with UK operations, as understanding these requirements is crucial for global compliance.
Overall, carbon reporting under SECR is important because as it can help to boost transparency and accountability around corporate energy use and emissions – allowing businesses to identify inefficiencies while supporting the UK’s broader climate goals.
Why is SECR Carbon Reporting beneficial?
The SECR is beneficial as it creates a bridge between fiscal performance and environmental responsibility. By tracking energy use and carbon emissions, companies can reduce costs, improve operational efficiency, and demonstrate transparency to regulators and stakeholders. In turn, this helps companies curtail their greenhouse gas emissions and combat the repercussions of climate change by endorsing energy-efficient practices.
Furthermore, beyond compliance, the SECR increases awareness regarding the implications of climate change and the intricacies of energy expenditure within organizations. It not highlights the monetary aspect of energy, but also enlightens stakeholders about a company's role in climate change. This clarity empowers leadership to make informed decisions and adopt low-carbon strategies.
For investors, SECR data provides reliable, standardized insight into a company’s sustainability efforts – which remain crucial for ESG-focused decision-making in today’s low-carbon economy.
Who is required to report on SECR?
The SECR impacts an estimated 11,900 companies incorporated in the UK. These businesses fall under three main categories. All companies that meet the following criteria are obligated to report their emissions and energy consumption unless they fall under one of the exemptions:
- Quoted companies of any size: These are companies listed on a public exchange. These companies are already subject to existing greenhouse gas reporting regulations, meaning that the 2019 SECR regulatory updates build on this existing obligation. This includes UK subsidiaries of US-listed companies.
- Large unquoted companies: The term "large", as defined by the Companies Act 2006, applies to a company that fulfills at least two of the following criteria:
- An annual turnover of over £36 million (around $47 million USD) or more
- More than £18 million (around 23.5 million USD) in total assets on the balance sheet
- More than 250 employees
- Large limited liability partnerships (LLPs): LLPs are considered to be large where they fulfill the same criteria outlined above as per the Companies Act 2006. For US parent companies, it's important to note that UK subsidiaries meeting these criteria must comply with SECR regardless of the parent company's location.
Additional Considerations:
- Charities and not-for-profit organizations: If a charity or non-profit organization meets the Companies Act 2006 definition of a “large company,” it must comply with SECR, even if it is structured differently.
- Public bodies: Public bodies are generally excluded from SECR. However, some public-service organizations, such as bodies owned by the NHS or a UK University, may have other carbon reporting obligations and could still fall under the scope of SECR.
Remember, for detailed and official guidance, it's important to refer to the UK government’s publication to better under what companies must provide in their reporting framework.
Does the SECR have any exemptions?
Yes, the SEC has exemptions. While the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) framework applies broadly, several key exemptions exist.
Here's a breakdown of the possible exemptions under the SECR:
- Group-Level Reporting Exemption: If you're reporting at a group level and a subsidiary wouldn't be subject to SECR when reporting individually, you have the discretion to exclude the energy and carbon data about that subsidiary.
- Low Energy User Exemption: If your organization consumes 40MWh or less energy during the financial year, your company can be considered a "low energy user". This designation means that while you are still required to calculate your total energy use (across gas, electricity, and transport fuels), your company will not obligated to include all the specific elements typically provided in a full SECR disclosure. In this case, your directors' report should clarify that this is the rationale behind the absence of a comprehensive SECR report, such as by stating that the low consumption threshold was the reason for limited reporting.
- Impractical or Commercially Sensitive Data Exemption: If disclosing your company's specific energy and carbon details is either commercially confidential or genuinely difficult to obtain, you may seek an exemption based on these reasons – but a clear explanation in your report justifying the exemption will be necessary to ensure transparency and compliance.
| Company Type | Criteria | Reporting Obligations | Exemptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quoted Companies | Listed on a UK stock exchange | Must report energy use and efficiency measures globally. | None |
| Unquoted Companies | Meets two of the following: turnover > £36M, balance sheet > £18M, > 250 employees | UK-based energy use and efficiency measures only. | Exempt if energy use is < 40 MWh per year |
| Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) | Same as unquoted companies: meets two of the following: turnover > £36M, balance sheet > £18M, > 250 employees | UK-based energy use and efficiency measures only. | Exempt if energy use is < 40 MWh per year |
How does it work for group and subsidiary-level reporting?
In some cases, a group-level report is required. In a group-level report, the parent company is typically required to disclose energy use and carbon emissions for the entire group, including all subsidiaries.
However, as previously explained in the exemptions section, if a subsidiary would not independently fall within the scope of SECR (i.e., if it is not considered a “large” company under the Companies Act 2006), its energy and emissions data may be excluded from the group report at the parent company's discretion.
It is important to note that reporting companies must remember that this specific guideline is treated differently than in the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) and the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme, where reporting rules for subsidiaries may vary.
Note that when subsidiary companies are within scope of SECR have already reported their energy and carbon information in a parent’s group-level report, they will not be required to file a separate energy and carbon report.
What are companies required to disclose under SECR?
SECR reporting requirements vary depending on the type and size of the business. We've provided a breakdown of what quoted companies — including large unquoted companies and LLPs — are required to report under the SECR framework.
Requirements for Quoted Companies
Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Scope 1, 2, and 3)
Quoted companies are legally required to report their Scope 1 and Scope 2 worldwide GHG emissions. The emissions should be reported in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) covering the seven gases listed in the Kyoto Protocol.
Companies are strongly recommended to report Scope 3 emissions if they are essential to business operations, however, for now reporting on Scope 3 emissions is not mandatory, and is voluntary only.
The report must include emissions of the seven Kyoto Protocol gases:
- Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
- Methane (CH₄)
- Nitrous oxide (N₂O)
- Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
- Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
- Sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆)
- Nitrogen trifluoride (NF₃)
Scope 3 emissions (all other indirect emissions, such as from supply chains or travel) are optional to include but strongly encouraged in reporting, especially when they represent a large portion of a company’s carbon footprint.
Emissions Intensity Ratios
Quoted companies should also report at least one emissions intensity ratio – which refers to a metric that relates emissions to a business activity, such as how many emissions are emitted via tonnes of CO₂e per £m revenue or per m² floor space. These selected emissions intensity ratios must be shared in their director's report for both:
- The current reporting year
- The previous reporting year (once in the second year of reporting and beyond)
Remember, emissions intensity ratios define GHG emissions in relation to the scale of business operations. Intensity metrics help regulators and stakeholders compare companies’ energy efficiency with counterparts of a similar size. Examples of intensity metrics include tons of CO2e per sales revenue or per square feet of total floor space.
Total Energy Use
In addition to their emissions, listed companies should report their total global annual energy usage, which includes specifying both:
- UK energy use
- Offshore energy use in other countries
If the first year of SECR reporting has passed, quoted companies must also provide a comparison between the current and previous reporting years.
Energy Efficiency Measures
SECR requires quoted companies to describe whether or not they implemented measures aimed at reducing carbon emissions throughout the course of the year, or any actions taken during the reporting year to improve energy efficiency. This should include:
- A narrative description of their energy-efficient activities, operational changes, or technologies in their annual report
- How successful those measures have been in improving energy efficiency or reducing energy consumption
If no actions were taken, this must also be explicitly stated in the report to ensure transparency.
Methodology
Quoted companies should outline the methodology used to calculate their energy use and GHG emissions. While there is no specific recommended methodology, SECR recommends selecting one that is widely used, comprehensive, and transparent, such as:
- GHG Protocol
- ISO 14064-1
- DEFRA guidelines
Reporting Requirements
Quoted companies should report these details and all SECR disclosures in their Director’s Reports. This applies to financial years beginning on or after April 1st 2019.
SECR Reporting Check-List
Here’s a quick SECR reporting checklist for quoted companies:
- Annual Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions (Scope 3 is optional but recommended, in a similar sense to emerging US climate disclosure frameworks such as with the SEC)
- Total global energy use (UK and overseas)
- At least one intensity ratio (one emissions intensity ratio), with year-on-year comparison
- Narrative report of energy efficiency measures
- Details on the methodology used for emissions and energy calculations
Large Unquoted Companies and Large LLPs
SECR requires large unlisted companies and large LLPs to report on the following information:
Energy Use and GHG Emissions
UK energy use (including the UK offshore area) in three categories: electricity, gas, and fuel for transport. Associated GHG emissions from these activities should also be reported, with at least one emissions intensity ratio included.
Note: When reporting transport energy use, businesses should report their direct fuel purchases for company vehicles, but there is no need to report fuel used from a third-party operator. Fuel used in flights, trains, public transport, taxi trips, freight, or shipping for services contracted to a third party is also excluded.
Energy Efficiency Measures and Methodology
Like quoted companies, large unquoted companies and large LLPs also need to provide a narrative description of their energy efficiency activities taken throughout the reporting year, and details on the methodology they used to help reduce energy usage or carbon emissions. In addition, they must disclose the methodology used to calculate energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. While SECR does not mandate a specific methodology, it recommends choosing a recognized, consistent, and transparent approach (e.g. DEFRA emissions factors, GHG Protocol, or ISO 14064-1).
Reporting Requirements
Also similar to quoted companies, large unquoted companies should provide the required information in their Directors’ Reports, or Strategy Reports alongside a clear explanation.
Large LLPs should report the information in their Energy and Carbon Report (a new obligation that was brought in with SECR). These reports must be filed for financial years starting on or after April 1st 2019.
SECR Reporting Check-List
Here’s a quick SECR reporting checklist for large unquoted companies and large LLPs:
- UK energy use for electricity, gas, and directly consumed transport fuel (includes UK offshore area)
- Greenhouse gas emissions (GHG emissions) from energy use
- One or more emissions intensity ratios (e.g., tonnes CO₂e per £m turnover or per employee)
- Narrative report of energy efficiency measures
- Details of methodology used to calculate energy and emissions data
Additional Recommendations
The SECR guidelines set a foundational benchmark for successful GHG reporting to mitigate the impacts of climate change, but there's room to go beyond the basics. Here's what's recommended in addition to the general requirements:
Full Disclosure: Companies should share details about all significant sources of energy consumption or greenhouse gas emissions, even those not specified in the guidelines. This includes Scope 3 emissions, which are the indirect emissions that occur in a company's value chain.
Science-backed Targets: Companies should aim to align their reporting with science-based goals, such as aiming to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2100.
Future-focused Analysis: The Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) suggests companies look ahead and analyse how climate change might affect them. This involves:
- Short-term projections (1-5 years)
- Medium-term projections (10-20 years)
- Long-term projections (30-50 years)
- These projections should reflect potential climate-related challenges across various warming scenarios.
Risk Assessment: The TCFD encourages companies to evaluate climate risks, both direct (like storms or rising sea levels) and indirect (like changes in policies, markets, technologies, potential lawsuits, or harm to their reputation).
Reporting Exemptions: When and How to Explain
In certain situations, companies might find it challenging to include their energy and carbon emissions data in their annual streamlined reports. Reasons could range from facing exceptional difficulties in gathering the data to concerns that sharing such information might harm the company's interests.
Companies choosing to withhold such data should clearly state their reasons for doing so. However, they're also expected to make efforts to fully comply in subsequent reports.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failing to comply with SECR reporting requirements can have significant repercussions for businesses, affecting both their financial standing and reputation. Here are the key risks of non-compliance:
Financial Penalties
Non-compliance with SECR can lead to fines and enforcement actions by the UK Government. While the exact penalty depends on the nature and severity of the breach, companies that fail to submit accurate and timely reports risk facing financial sanctions. This adds an unnecessary expense that could otherwise be avoided with proper compliance.
Reputational Damage
In today’s business landscape, transparency is critical for maintaining trust among stakeholders. Non-compliance with SECR may signal a lack of commitment to sustainability, damaging a company’s reputation with investors, customers, and employees. This can lead to lost business opportunities and decreased brand loyalty.
Missed Opportunities for Efficiency Savings
SECR compliance often uncovers inefficiencies in energy use that, when addressed, can result in significant cost savings. Failing to report and act on this data means companies miss opportunities to reduce their operational expenses and carbon footprint, leaving them at a competitive disadvantage.
Increased Scrutiny From Regulators and Stakeholders
Non-compliance can attract unwanted attention from regulatory authorities, leading to audits or more stringent oversight. Additionally, sustainability-conscious investors may question a company’s reliability and commitment to addressing climate risks.
Guidance and Support
To avoid these risks, companies should ensure their compliance processes are robust and aligned with SECR requirements. The UK Government’s official SECR guidelines provide detailed instructions on reporting obligations and methodologies, which businesses should follow closely. Companies unsure about their compliance status can seek expert advice to streamline their reporting processes and minimize risks.
Helpful Resources for Companies Reporting to the SECR
For further information and support on SECR compliance, consider exploring the following resources:
SECR Official Guidelines
- UK Government SECR Guidance: The official guidance provides detailed information on SECR requirements, reporting methodologies, and compliance procedures.
Government Resources on Energy Efficiency
- Department for Energy Security & Net Zero: Offers resources and support for businesses aiming to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions.
- Carbon Trust: Provides advice and support on energy efficiency and carbon reduction strategies.
Greenly’s Services Related to Emissions Reporting
- Greenly Carbon Management Solutions: Discover how Greenly can assist your business with emissions tracking and sustainability reporting.
- Book a Demo: Learn how Greenly's platform simplifies carbon accounting and reporting.
Why companies should consider Scope 3 reporting under SECR with Greenly?
SECR only mandates Scope 1 and Scope 2 reporting, however, it is strongly recommended that companies also adopt Scope 3 reporting. Let’s take a closer look at the different Scopes and what they encompass below:
The GHG Protocol defines the three emissions reporting Scopes as follows:
“ Scope 3 emissions are an important part of most companies’ carbon footprint, making up around 75% of their total GHG emissions. While there is currently no requirement to report on Scope 3 emissions, this may change in the future. – (World Resources Institute). ”
Scope 3 emissions data is more challenging for companies to collect, as they aren't created by the company themselves. It includes the supply chain emissions created when manufacturing and shipping products, as well as the emissions caused by the end-users when consuming the products, goods, or services.
In the US, the SEC's proposed climate disclosure rules also address Scope 3 reporting for certain companies, making this an growing standard across the globe.
To find out more about the different scope emissions, read our article on the topic – and if you'd like to learn more about carbon accounting. take a look at our blog.
Working with specialized carbon accounting experts like Greenly can improve the quality of your reporting across all 3 Scopes, so why not get in touch with us today?
What about Greenly?
At Greenly, we specialize in making carbon management accessible and actionable for businesses of all sizes. Our suite of carbon management services is designed to help your company effectively measure, track, and reduce emissions, enabling you to achieve sustainability goals while staying ahead of regulatory requirements like SECR.
Here’s what we offer:
- Emissions Tracking
Greenly’s intuitive platform tracks Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions across your operations, providing you with real-time insights into your carbon footprint. - Carbon Accounting
From understanding your emissions data to identifying reduction opportunities, Greenly equips your business with the tools you need to take action on climate impact. - Supply Chain Visibility
Our tools help you analyze and reduce emissions across your supply chain, with access to sustainable supplier recommendations to make greener choices. - Customized Decarbonization Pathways
Create tailored action plans aligned with science-based targets to meet your long-term sustainability objectives.
With Greenly, sustainability is not just a goal – it’s an achievable and measurable journey. Our mission is to empower businesses to reduce emissions, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen their commitment to a sustainable future.
Request a demo today to discover how Greenly can help you take the next step in your carbon management journey.
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Sources
UK Government https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/streamlined-energy-and-carbon-reporting-secr-for-academy-trusts/streamlined-energy-and-carbon-reporting-secr-for-academy-trusts and https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/academy-trust-financial-management-good-practice-guides
Financial Reporting Council https://www.frc.org.uk/news-and-events/news/2019/12/the-streamlined-energy-carbon-reporting-secr-taxonomy/
Carbon Trust https://www.carbontrust.com/news-and-insights/insights/secr-explained-streamlined-energy-carbon-reporting-framework-for-uk-business
Swiss Re https://www.swissre.com/investors/financial-information.html?showAll=true
UK Legislation https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/46/contents
Energy Advice Hub https://energyadvicehub.org/do-we-yet-know-which-large-organisations-are-exempt/ and https://energyadvicehub.org/secr-faqs/
KPMG https://assets.kpmg.com/content/dam/kpmg/pdf/2014/09/practical-guide-strategic-report.pdf
World Resources Institute https://www.wri.org/update/trends-show-companies-are-ready-scope-3-reporting-us-climate-disclosure-rule
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