Energy costs per square meter in commercial buildings: what to expect and how to save
Energy is one of the largest cost items for many businesses. Yet few entrepreneurs know exactly how much energy their building consumes per square meter. In this blog, we look at average energy costs per m², influencing factors, and how you can reduce them effectively.
Average energy costs per m²: what to expect
Energy costs vary significantly depending on building type, usage, and sector. However, several sources provide indicative averages:
| Type of Building | Avg. Energy Cost per m²/year | Source & Notes |
| Office (standard) | €25 to €50 | CBS, Vattenfall, real data |
| Office (energy efficient) | €10 to €25 | Vattenfall, label C or better |
| Hospitality | €50 to €120 | Vattenfall – high thermal load |
| Retail | €30 to €75 | Vattenfall, avg per m² |
| Industry/Production | €50 to €150 | Process dependent |
Note: These are indicative figures based on past electricity and gas prices. Actual costs vary depending on energy rates, usage patterns, and insulation level.
Sources:
- The Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek (CBS) Average usage of 60–100 kWh electricity and 12–23 m³ gas per m²/year for offices.
- Vattenfall Typical SME energy usage by sector.
- Huurbieding.nl Average energy cost in the Netherlands around €35 per m²/year.
Want to know how your building compares? Measure your usage with an energy management system like EnergyGrip.
Key factors influencing energy costs per m²
1. Isolation quality:
Better insulation reduces heating and cooling needs.
2. Installation efficiency:
Modern HVAC and LED lighting use less energy.
3. Occupancy intensity:
24/7 buildings consume more than intermittently used spaces.
4. Business activity
Hospitality typically has higher energy needs than offices.
5. Staff behavior
Conscious energy use directly affects overall consumption.
How to reduce energy costs per m²
1. Energy monitoring for insight
Use an energy management system (EMS) to track consumption per m². Identify peak usage and take targeted action.
2. Invest in insulation and efficient installations
Measures like roof insulation, HR++ glass, or solar panels can significantly reduce costs.
3. Smart control of installations
Automate heating and lighting based on real use of spaces.
4. Compare energy contracts
Choosing dynamic contracts or better tariffs can cut costs immediately.
5. Energy Investment Deduction (EIA)
Companies investing in energy-efficient technologies may benefit from the EIA scheme.
Useful tool: RVO’s DVU dashboard
The Dutch Enterprise Agency (RVO) offers the DVU dashboard to help owners and managers of commercial properties analyze and reduce energy consumption per square meter.
With this tool, you can:
- Collect and share building energy data.
- Monitor usage per m².
- Make informed decisions about efficiency measures.
Start managing your m² consumption
Energy costs vary by building, but targeted action and insight can make a big difference. Monitoring, smart control, and staff awareness help lower costs and improve sustainability.
Curious how much your company could save per m²?
Request a free consultation or explore our energy management solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average energy cost per m² for a commercial building?
Between €10 and €150 annually, depending on building type and usage. Offices tend to be cheaper than hospitality or manufacturing sites.
How do I calculate the energy cost per m² for my building?
Divide your total annual energy bill (gas and electricity) by the building’s square meter surface. Factor in occupancy and usage intensity.
What are the fastest ways to reduce energy costs per m²?
Optimize heating/lighting settings, install a smart thermostat or EMS, and encourage energy-saving behavior among staff.
Is monitoring energy per m² mandatory?
No, but companies with high energy usage must take efficiency measures. Monitoring is highly recommended for insight and compliance.
Are there subsidies for energy-saving measures in business buildings?
Yes. Programs like the Energy Investment Deduction (EIA) and SEEH can help reduce investment costs in energy efficiency.