SSE’s tax strategy


In March 2016 the UK Government published the Finance Bill 2016 which includes requirements for large businesses to publish their tax strategy. Under the requirement companies, partnerships, groups or sub-groups will need to publish a UK tax strategy.


SSE’s tax strategy does not change significantly from year to year. There is a well understood approach to tax planning, risk management and governance, which is published for the first time below, in line with the Finance Bill 2016 requirements.


1. Tax Policy


SSE’s Group Tax Policy specifies the principles by which SSE approaches its tax affairs. This policy is supported by a Tax Code of Conduct that outlines the responsibilities and conduct expected of SSE employees and associates when dealing with all tax matters for the Group. These principles are approved by the SSE Board. They apply across the Group and enforce SSE’s approach to tax transparency, with the objective of being a low risk and responsible tax payer.


SSE Group Tax Policy


SSE is proud to pay its fair share of tax, and its policy is to operate within both the letter and spirit of the law at all times. The Group’s primary objective from a tax perspective is to be compliant with all tax legislation requirements. This includes making timely and accurate returns which reflect SSE’s fiscal obligation to Government whilst, at the same time, recognising all legislative concessions and reliefs.


SSE strives to minimise its total tax liability within the framework of legislative reliefs but does not take an aggressive stance in its interpretation of tax legislation. SSE does not use artificial tax avoidance schemes or tax havens to reduce the Group’s tax liabilities.


Central to its Tax Policy is the maintenance and development of a strong working relationship with HMRC and other treasuries based on trust and cooperation. As a consequence SSE strives to be regarded as a low risk and responsible taxpayer.


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