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KEY ESG Emission factor methodology

KEY ESG has implemented an enhanced methodology for updating and managing carbon emission factors (EFs) across our platform.

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Written by Femke Hummert
Updated this week

Our Enhanced Methodology

1. Full Transparency

We maintain complete transparency in our emission factor usage:

  • All emission factors used in calculations are available in carbon auditable exports

  • Exception: IEA (International Energy Agency) electricity factors cannot be shared in output reports due to licensing restrictions

  • For questions about IEA factors, contact our support team at support@keyesg.com

2. Entry Method Flexibility

You have control over your emission factors:

  • Use platform default emission factors for standard calculations

  • Override with your own emission factors using supplier-specific or direct entry methods

  • Choose the approach that best fits your reporting needs

3. Annual Updates and Change Log

We provide predictable, transparent updates:

  • Emission factors are updated and locked annually in January

  • All admin users receive a detailed change log each January

  • No surprise updates during peak reporting seasons

4. Most Recent Data Sources

Our emission factors are based on the latest verified data:

  • Sources include leading providers (IEA, DEFRA, EPA, and others)

  • Data is current as of December of the preceding calendar year

  • Only verified, authoritative sources are used

5. Year-Long Consistency

Stable factors throughout the reporting year:

  • Once locked in January, emission factors remain unchanged for the entire calendar year

  • Eliminates mid-year calculation changes that could affect your reporting

  • Provides predictability for annual reporting cycles

Impact on Your Reporting

Implementation Timeline

  • Through 2025: All current emission factors remain unchanged

  • January 2026: Latest available emission factors will be locked in for the year

  • Ongoing: Each January, you'll receive an email with emission factor change logs

What This Affects

  • All built-in emission factors across Scopes 1, 2, and 3

  • Metric calculations that incorporate these emission factors

  • Historical data: Previous emissions calculations remain unchanged and use the factors that were in place at the time of original reporting.

Important Note on Historical Data

When re-submitting historical submissions that include electricity data, you may see different calculated values even when your input values remain the same. This is due to our updated emission factor methodology. Future edits will consistently use this new calculation approach.

If you have any questions or would like to update your electricity emission factor selection, our support team is here to help at support@keyesg.com. We’re excited about these improvements and believe they will provide you with even more confidence in the accuracy and consistency of your ESG data.

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