Abstract

This study examines the evolution of ESG reporting in the utilities sector, a field increasingly scrutinized for its environmental, social, and governance impacts. As global awareness of sustainability challenges grows—and regulatory frameworks such as the EU’s NFRD and CSRD strengthen disclosure requirements—utilities are pressured to enhance the transparency of their ESG practices. The research evaluates how companies respond to these demands by analyzing three dimensions of their sustainability reports: integration with financial statements, modes of presentation (text vs. graphics), and overall length. Based on a sample of 16 utilities, the study compares data from 2023 with findings from 2021. Preliminary expectations point to progress in the integration of sustainability information, improved clarity, and more concise reporting. Nonetheless, the analysis highlights methodological limitations, including the restricted sample size and the need for complementary qualitative approaches. The study concludes that utilities must further strengthen the transparency and standardization of their ESG reporting to more effectively communicate their commitments and performance in the transition toward sustainability.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Introduction

2. Literature review: definition of ESG reporting
   2.1 The role of utilities sectors
   2.2 ESG reporting in the utilities sector

3. Methodology

4. Findings

5. Conclusions