SSE plc has set a series of comprehensive carbon targets, aligned to the 2016 Paris Agreement, and validated by the Science-Based Target initiative, which will see SSE strive to cut emissions further and faster

They are designed to ensure that SSE has a credible and verified target that shows a clear line of sight towards a well-below 2°C global warming trajectory. Under the new series of targets:

• SSE aims to reduce its direct Scope 1 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 60% to 120g CO2e/kWh by 2030 from a 2018 base year (300g CO2e/kWh), stretching its previous target to reduce carbon intensity by 50% to 150g CO2e/kWh;
• SSE also commits to cut its absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 40% by 2030 from a 2018 base year, from 11.1m tonnes of CO2 equivalent to 6.6m tonnes, reflecting the importance of delivering absolute emissions reductions in the long run;
• SSE understands the impact of its indirect emissions and has therefore committed to work closely with its supply chain so that 50% of its suppliers by spend will have a science-based target by 2024; and
• Finally, while the decarbonisation of heat remains the hardest challenge of all, SSE also commits to reduce absolute GHG emissions from use of products sold 50% by 2034 from a 2018 base year.

SSE will report annual progress against these targets within its Sustainability Report and, in line with the requirements of the Science-Based Target Initiative, will review the targets themselves in 2025 according to the latest scientific evidence. These goals continue to be directly linked to executive remuneration in SSE.

SSE Chief Executive, Alistair Phillips-Davies said: “The climate emergency remains as dangerous as it did before the coronavirus struck. We need to focus on securing a green recovery and investment in carbon reduction is a win-win for climate and economy.

“SSE’s vision is to be a leading energy provider in a net zero world, but that vision must have credibility and the confidence of our key stakeholders. What’s needed is action – and that action must be backed by evidence, science and facts.

“That’s why SSE has sought the expertise of the Science-Based Target Initiative; why we’ve aligned our carbon targets to the Paris Agreement; and why, now, we will redouble our efforts to achieve them.”

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