Local Energy Communities (LEGs) contribute significantly to climate protection. Through the use of renewable energy and local distribution, LEGs measurably reduce CO2 emissions.
In this article, you'll learn how much CO2 LEGs save and what measurable environmental impacts they have.
CO2 Savings Through LEGs
Average Savings
Small LEG (10-20 members):
- CO2 savings: 10-25 tons/year
- Per member: 1-2 tons/year
Medium LEG (20-50 members):
- CO2 savings: 25-60 tons/year
- Per member: 1-2 tons/year
Large LEG (50+ members):
- CO2 savings: 60-150 tons/year
- Per member: 1-2 tons/year
Comparison: LEG vs. Utility Provider
Utility Provider (Swiss Mix 2025):
- CO2 emissions: 0.03-0.05 kg CO2/kWh
- At 4,000 kWh/year: 120-200 kg CO2/year
LEG (100% renewable):
- CO2 emissions: 0.00-0.01 kg CO2/kWh
- At 4,000 kWh/year: 0-40 kg CO2/year
Savings: 80-200 kg CO2/year per household
Calculation of CO2 Savings
Formula
CO2 Savings = Consumption (kWh) × (Provider Emission Factor - LEG Emission Factor) Example: 4,000 kWh × (0.04 kg/kWh - 0.00 kg/kWh) = 160 kg CO2/year
Additional Environmental Benefits
1. Reduced Transmission Losses
Benefit:
- Local distribution = fewer losses
- Higher overall efficiency
- Less energy waste
Savings: 5-10% additional
2. Local Value Creation
Benefit:
- Energy stays local
- Regional economy
- Sustainable development
Measurement and Monitoring
Methods
1. Direct Measurement:
- Measure consumption and production
- Apply CO2 factors
- Automatic calculation
2. Comparison Calculation:
- Compare with previous situation
- Market comparison
- Use standard values
3. Platform Monitoring:
- Upgrid offers CO2 tracking
- Automatic calculation
- Visualization
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much CO2 does an LEG really save?
Typically:
- Per household: 80-200 kg CO2/year
- Per LEG (50 members): 25-60 tons/year
- Dependent on consumption and energy source
How is CO2 savings measured?
Methods:
- Direct measurement of consumption/production
- Comparison with market electricity mix
- Standard emission factors
Is LEG energy really CO2-free?
Yes, if:
- 100% renewable energy
- No fossil sources
- Life cycle considered: 0.00-0.01 kg CO2/kWh
Next Steps
Maximize CO2 savings?
- Join or establish LEG: Start with LEG
- Optimize self-consumption: Use photovoltaics
- Use monitoring: Activate CO2 tracking
- Further measures: Increase energy efficiency
Every LEG saves measurable CO2 – become part of it!
Related Articles:
- LEG and Sustainability Goals: Contribution to SDGs
- Energy Transition in Switzerland: The Role of LEG
- LEG Cost-Benefit Analysis: How Much Can You Save?
- Photovoltaics in LEG: Maximizing Solar Energy Use
About Upgrid: Upgrid helps LEGs measure and optimize their environmental impact. Visit Upgrid.ch for more information.