⚖️How to estimate savings 

When updating an action, you will be asked to record the expected annual emissions change once an action is complete. You can do this in one of two ways:

• Amount of CO2e – enter the expected change as an absolute figure in tonnes of CO2e. This means the expected annual CO2e avoided because of the action taken.
• Percentage change to emission sources – enter the expected change as a percentage reduction or increase across relevant emissions sources. This means the expected annual increase or decrease in energy or other emission sources as a result of the action taken.

Where relevant, you may optionally  provide additional measurements such as energy savings, water, waste, or financial figures. These will appear as separate fields within the action and use absolute units such as tonnes, m2, or a currency value.

📊 Making a realistic estimate 

To make a realistic estimate, consider:

• Comparing resource use or emissions data from before and after similar past actions
• Reviewing the efficiency improvements of new or upgraded equipment
• Consulting colleagues or internal experts who can advise on likely savings

Where applicable, you can also record an expected increase in energy type if the action shifts energy demand from once type to another, for example moving from purchased standard electricity to on-site solar PV panels. If you are switching energy to a new type that is not included in the baseline year report, you will need to edit that year’s report and add the new energy type, recording zero consumption for that year. 

To do this find the baseline year report in the Report> Facilities section, deselect the Share box at the bottom of the report. Go to the Energy section of that year’s report, and add the energy type you will be switching to, for example, Electricity (renewable self-generated). Enter 0 TJ (if this energy type was not used that year).

Select Share again, and then return to your Action. You will be able to add the new energy type under Annual emissions changes > Percentage change to emission sources. You can then indicate the expected reduction in purchased standard electricity and associated increase in Electricity (renewable self-generated).

📂Updating savings

As your understanding of an action’s results improves, you can return to the plan and update your figures at any time. All changes save automatically as you enter them. Keeping your estimates current helps you see the most accurate picture of your progress.