Carbon tracker

The carbon intensity of the UK’s electricity grid changes every hour based on how much of our power is being generated by renewables (wind, solar, hydro) versus fossil fuels (gas). This tool helps you track those changes so you can use electricity when it is cleanest.

Real-time Grid Intensity

[Live Data Placeholder: Current Grid Intensity (gCO2/kWh)]

The carbon intensity is measured in grams of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) produced for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity generated.

  • Low (0-100 gCO2/kWh): Excellent. Power is mostly from renewables and nuclear. Ideal for running high-load appliances.
  • Moderate (100-200 gCO2/kWh): Good. A balanced mix of energy sources.
  • High (200+ gCO2/kWh): Avoid if possible. The grid is relying heavily on gas-fired power stations.

48-Hour Forecast

Our tracker provides a rolling 48-hour forecast of grid intensity, allowing you to plan ahead:

  1. Check the forecast: Look for “green” windows where intensity is predicted to be low.
  2. Schedule your appliances: Set your dishwasher, washing machine, or EV charger to run during these clean windows.
  3. Charge your battery: If you have a home battery, you can charge it from the grid during low-carbon periods to use later when intensity is higher.

Why it matters

By shifting your usage to low-carbon times, you are:

  • Reducing your personal carbon footprint: Even if you use the same amount of electricity, when you use it affects your total emissions.
  • Supporting the transition to renewables: High demand during low-carbon times provides a strong signal to the market to invest more in wind and solar power.
  • Potentially saving money: Low carbon intensity often coincides with lower prices on Dynamic/Agile tariffs.

Data Source: Our carbon intensity data is provided by the National Grid ESO Carbon Intensity API, developed in partnership with the Environmental Defense Fund Europe and the University of Oxford.

[Launch the Interactive Carbon Tracker Tool (Placeholder)]

Our full tool will allow you to see a regional breakdown of carbon intensity, as the power mix in Scotland (often high wind) can be very different from the South of England.