Data Accuracy in Greenometer
Accurate input data are essential for credible CO₂ footprint calculations. Sustainability data may come from different sources—such as invoices, ERP exports, suppliers, or estimates—and their reliability can vary.
To ensure transparency, comparability, and audit readiness, every data entry in Greenometer must be assigned a Data Accuracy Level.
The selected accuracy level represents the expected deviation between the reported and actual value, based on the quality and origin of the data source.
Data Accuracy Levels
High Accuracy (± 5%)
Description
Data based on primary, verifiable records.
Typical sources
Energy and utility invoices
Metered readings
Exports from accounting, ERP, or energy management systems
Audited third-party reports
Use when
Data are complete, directly measured, and internally or externally validated.
Good Accuracy (± 15%)
Description
Data based on reliable secondary sources provided by third parties.
Typical sources
Annual or monthly summaries from suppliers
Reports from landlords or facility managers
Verified statements without direct company-level metering
Use when
Primary documents (invoices or direct measurements) are unavailable, but data are supported by credible external documentation.
Fair Accuracy (± 30%)
Description
Data based on partial information, estimates, or calculated assumptions.
Typical sources
Averages calculated from incomplete months
Internal estimates based on historical data
Facility-level or operational approximations
Use when
Some input data are missing and estimates are required to complete reporting.
Note
All estimated values must be clearly marked and supported by calculation logic.
Poor Accuracy (> 30%)
Description
Data based solely on benchmarks or generalized assumptions, without primary documentation.
Typical sources
Industry or sector benchmarks
Default emission factors
Assumptions derived from comparable sites
Use when
No actual consumption data are available. This level should be used only as a last resort to avoid data gaps.
Note
Always flag this clearly in Greenometer and document the rationale for the estimate.
How to Select the Correct Data Accuracy Level
Review the data source
Identify where the value comes from: invoice, system export, supplier statement, or estimate.Compare with the definitions above
Match the source type and reliability to the appropriate accuracy level.Select the accuracy level in Greenometer
High (±5%), Good (±15%), Fair (±30%), or Poor (>30%).Document supporting evidence
Upload or reference relevant files (invoice, supplier email, calculation sheet).When in doubt, choose the lower accuracy level
A conservative approach ensures transparent and reliable reporting.
Example
Situation | Data Source | Assigned Accuracy | Explanation |
Monthly energy invoices for all months | Utility provider | High ± 5% | Direct metered data |
Annual district heating total | Supplier statement | Good ± 15% | Verified but not metered by the company |
Two months missing, estimated using averages | Internal calculation | Fair ± 30% | Partial estimation used |
No data available, benchmark applied | Industry average | Poor > 30% | Approximation only |
Supporting Documentation
Acceptable evidence by accuracy level includes:
High – Invoices, metered readings, ERP or system exports
Good – Supplier reports or third-party statements
Fair – Internal calculation files and estimation logs
Poor – Benchmark references and explanatory notes
All supporting materials must be stored in Greenometer for audit, assurance, and review purposes.