SSE plc, commonly referred to as SSE, is a leading energy company headquartered in Reading, GB. Founded in 1998, SSE has established itself as a key player in the UK and Ireland's energy sector, focusing on electricity generation, transmission, and renewable energy solutions. The company is particularly renowned for its commitment to sustainability, with significant investments in wind and hydroelectric power. SSE's core offerings include electricity and gas supply, as well as energy services that cater to both residential and business customers. Its unique approach to integrating renewable energy sources has positioned SSE as a frontrunner in the transition to a low-carbon economy. Notable achievements include being one of the largest renewable energy producers in the UK, reflecting its strong market position and dedication to environmental stewardship.
How does Sse's carbon action stack up? DitchCarbon scores companies based on their carbon action and commitment to reducing emissions. Read about our methodology to learn more.
Mean score of companies in the Electricity Distribution industry. Comparing a company's score to the industry average can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
Sse's score of 76 is higher than 87% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
In 2025, SSE reported total emissions of approximately 5,700 kg CO2e for Scope 1 and 2 combined, alongside 1,950 kg CO2e for Scope 3 emissions related to the use of sold products. In 2024, SSE's emissions were significantly higher, with Scope 1 emissions at about 700,000,000 kg CO2e and Scope 3 emissions reaching approximately 730,000,000 kg CO2e. The company has set ambitious targets to reduce its carbon footprint, aiming for a 72.5% reduction in absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 2030 from a 2017/18 baseline. Additionally, SSE is committed to achieving net zero emissions for Scope 1 and 2 by 2040 and for remaining Scope 3 emissions by 2050. SSE's initiatives include a commitment to reduce the carbon intensity of its Scope 1 emissions by 80% by 2030, based on 2017/18 levels. The company also aims for 50% of its suppliers by spend to have science-based targets by 2024. These targets are aligned with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and reflect SSE's commitment to sustainable practices in the energy sector.
Access structured emissions data, company-specific emission factors, and source documents
| 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scope 1 | 13,079,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 00,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | - |
| Scope 2 | 1,244,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | - |
| Scope 3 | 12,368,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000,000 | 00,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000 |
Sse's Scope 3 emissions, which decreased by 100% last year and decreased by approximately 100% since 2014, demonstrating supply chain emissions tracking. A significant portion of their carbon footprint comes from suppliers and value chain emissions, with Scope 3 emissions accounting for 48% of total emissions under the GHG Protocol, with "Use of Sold Products" representing nearly all of their reported Scope 3 footprint.
Climate goals typically focus on 2030 interim targets and 2050 net-zero commitments, aligned with global frameworks like the Paris Agreement and Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to ensure alignment with global climate goals.
Sse has established climate goals through participation in recognized frameworks and target-setting initiatives. Companies often set interim 2030 targets and long-term 2050 net-zero goals to demonstrate measurable progress toward decarbonization.

Common questions about Sse's sustainability data and climate commitments