Grid Emissions Factor
The amount of CO2 emitted per kWh of electricity generated by the local grid, varying by region and time of day based on the generation mix. Ranges from 0.1 lb/kWh (hydro-heavy) to 1.8 lb/kWh (coal-heavy).
Why It Matters
Your solar environmental benefit depends on what it displaces. Solar in a coal-heavy state avoids 3-4x more emissions than in a hydro-heavy state.
Related Tools
Related Terms
Emissions Factor
The amount of CO₂ (or CO₂ equivalent) emitted per unit of electricity generated, typically in lbs CO₂/kWh or kg CO₂/MWh. It varies by region based on the generation mix.
Carbon Intensity
The amount of CO2 emissions per unit of electricity generated. Varies by grid mix (coal, gas, renewables).
eGRID
The EPA's Emissions & Generation Resource Integrated Database — the definitive source for emissions data on U.S. power plants and electric grids, organized by region and subregion.