2 November 2007
Figures are now taking into account the 'net' calorific values of fuels rather than the 'gross' figures. This means that the energy in the fuel which is used to evaporate the water produced in the process is not being counted towards the useful energy contained in the fuel.
More importantly, the electricity CO2 emissions figure of 0.43kg/kWh has been increased to 0.52kg/KWh.
The emission rate for electricity is related to the generation fuel mix and energy losses in the transmission system. It has been said that the new figure is a more realistic reflection of the true generation fuel mix being used today.
It should be noted that the old figures published by Defra in 2005 will still be used for CCA agreements currently in place. However for carbon footprinting work the new figures should be used.
The new figures will tend to favour direct burning of fuels rather than the use of electricity.
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