Estimate the CO₂ emissions from electricity consumption based on a grid emission factor.
$$\text{CO}_2\text{ (kg)} = E\text{ (kWh)} \times f\text{ (kg CO}_2\text{/kWh)}$$
| Region | Factor (kg CO₂/kWh) |
|---|---|
| Global average | 0.42 |
| China | ~0.58 |
| USA | ~0.39 |
| EU average | ~0.26 |
| France | ~0.06 |
| Norway | ~0.02 |
The grid emission factor (also called carbon intensity) is the average CO₂ emitted per kilowatt-hour of electricity generated in a given region. It depends on the mix of energy sources (coal, gas, renewables, nuclear).
Values range widely — from under 0.05 kg CO₂/kWh for highly renewable grids (Iceland, Norway) to over 0.7 kg CO₂/kWh for coal-heavy grids. The global average is around 0.42 kg CO₂/kWh.
Switch to a green energy tariff, use energy-efficient appliances, improve insulation, and shift high-consumption tasks (laundry, charging) to times when renewable generation is highest.
