Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) Explained

Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) is the UK greenhouse gas reporting scheme that replaced the Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) from April 2019. SECR is part of a package of changes aimed at reducing the burden of reporting requirements while further incentivising energy efficiency and carbon reduction.

Who needs to comply with SECR?

SECR applies to quoted companies, large unquoted companies, and large Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) incorporated in the UK. Large companies are defined as those meeting at least two of: turnover of £36 million or more, balance sheet total of £18 million or more, 250 employees or more.

What must be reported?

Quoted companies: global energy use, Scope 1 and 2 emissions, at least one intensity metric, and energy efficiency actions taken. Large unquoted companies: UK energy use including electricity, gas, and transport fuel, associated Scope 1 and 2 emissions, an intensity metric, and energy efficiency actions. Reports are included in annual Directors’ Reports.

Benefits of SECR compliance

Beyond compliance, SECR reporting helps organisations identify energy inefficiencies, reduce costs, demonstrate environmental commitment to stakeholders, and align with broader sustainability goals like science-based targets and net-zero strategies.