The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a widely used framework that helps companies set greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets aligned with climate science and the goals of the Paris Agreement. In practice, “SBTi targets” mean a company has defined measurable emissions reductions across its value chain using SBTi methods and boundary rules, and then follows a structured pathway to track progress over time.
Why SBTi Matters for EV Charging Businesses
For EV charging OEMs, CPOs, installers, and energy partners, the SBTi is increasingly relevant, as customers and investors expect credible, comparable decarbonization commitments.
– Strengthens credibility versus vague “net-zero” claims by using science-aligned methods
– Improves comparability in procurement and tendering (especially for infrastructure projects)
– Drives better management of Scope 3 emissions, often the largest footprint for hardware and supply chains
– Supports compliance-aligned reporting and due diligence expectations (e.g., supplier ESG requirements)
– Helps guide investment priorities like renewable electricity, efficient production, and lower-carbon materials
How SBTi Targets Are Structured
SBTi-aligned targets typically follow a defined scope and timeline.
– Scopes covered: Scope 1, Scope 2, and (where relevant) Scope 3
– Near-term targets: reductions over a shorter planning horizon, linked to science-based pathways
– Long-term targets / net-zero alignment: deeper reductions over a longer horizon, with clear expectations for what “net-zero” means
– Boundary and accounting rules: alignment with the GHG Protocol (what is included, how it is measured)
– Supplier and customer value-chain emissions: often addressed through Scope 3 categories
What SBTi Means in Practice
For many organizations, SBTi translates into a mix of operational actions and supply-chain engagement.
– Measuring a credible baseline via a GHG inventory
– Setting reduction targets for Scope 1 and 2 (energy use, fuels, purchased electricity)
– Identifying key Scope 3 drivers (materials, electronics, logistics, product use, end-of-life)
– Implementing levers such as energy efficiency, renewable electricity, and supplier decarbonization
– Tracking progress annually using consistent emissions factors and data governance
– Integrating targets into procurement, product design, and investment decisions
Common SBTi-Related Requirements in the Supply Chain
Even if your company is not pursuing validation, you may be asked to support a customer’s SBTi reporting.
– Providing product carbon footprint (PCF) data or LCA inputs for chargers and components
– Sharing supplier emissions data, material declarations, or logistics emissions information
– Documenting electricity sourcing, including renewable energy certificates where applicable
– Demonstrating reductions through process improvements and updated designs (lighter housings, packaging optimization, lower-loss power electronics)
– Reporting boundaries and assumptions clearly to avoid double-counting
Key Benefits of SBTi Alignment
– Higher trust and reduced risk of greenwashing accusations
– Stronger positioning in corporate procurement and public-sector tenders
– Clear internal roadmap for emissions reduction investments
– Better data discipline for ESG reporting and supplier management
– Enables credible progress tracking and stakeholder communication
Limitations to Consider
– High data demand, especially for Scope 3 across complex supply chains
– Supplier participation can be a bottleneck for accurate and auditable reporting
– Target-setting does not guarantee results without governance, capex, and operational change
– Methodology choices and boundaries must be applied consistently to stay credible
Related Glossary Terms
ESG reporting
GHG Protocol
Scope 1 emissions
Scope 2 emissions
Scope 3 emissions
Net zero strategy
Product carbon footprint (PCF)
Life cycle assessment (LCA)
Renewable energy certificates
Greenwashing