How many GHGs does a light bulb emit? GHG emissions associated with electricity consumption

Abstract

Greenhouse gases (GHGs) associated with electricity consumption are regularly included in GHG reporting protocols. Canadian examples are used to illustrate where issues arise and where there is room for improvement, specifically the electricity emission factor (EEF). The EEF is affected by a number of factors including: Uncertainty of GHG emissions; GHG accounting; and Grid supply mix. Fluctuation in fuel quality can affect overall CO2 emissions and the EEF. An internal study conducted by Environment Canada found that emissions data reported via stack-specific continuous emissions monitoring systems differed by between 2 and 6% from those developed using generic emission factors and fuel consumption data. The GHG accounting for Canada's EEFs includes combustion emissions only, excluding process or fugitive emissions and emissions associated with the transportation and distribution of electricity. The variability in the grid supply mix also has an impact on GHG emissions due to contributions by different t...