What is Energy Data and how to use it smartly? | Insight & savings
In a time when energy prices fluctuate, sustainability becomes increasingly important, and regulations increase, one thing is certain: energy data is worth its weight in gold. But how does energy data work exactly, and more importantly: how can you use this data to gain real control over your energy consumption and costs?
What is Energy Data?
Energy data encompasses all measurement data that indicates something about your energy consumption, production, feed-back, or generation. Think of data from smart meters, sub-meters, charging stations, solar panels, building management systems, or heat pumps. This data can be available per quarter hour, hour, day, or month—depending on the type of connection and measurement system.
By smartly collecting and analyzing this data, insights emerge into when, where, and how much energy is being consumed. This forms the basis for optimization, sustainability, and cost savings.
Why is Energy Data Important?
Good decisions can only be made based on reliable information. Energy data helps you to:
- Recognize and reduce consumption peaks
- Detect unnecessary standby consumption
- Compare energy consumption per location, department, or installation
- Calculate return on investment of sustainability measures
- Comply with reporting obligations (such as EED or CSRD)
In short: without insight into energy data, you’re steering based on gut feeling rather than facts.
How Can You Collect Energy Data?
There are various ways to collect reliable energy consumption data:
- Smart meters and sensors that automatically transmit data
- Data integrations with grid operators and suppliers
- Energy Monitoring Systems (EMS) like EnergyGrip that centralize and visualize data
Want to know what’s the best approach for your organization? Then also read our explanation about energy management in buildings.
How do you use energy data for savings and insight?
The power lies not only in collecting but especially in translating data into action. Here are some smart applications:
Real-time monitoring
Get immediate insight into deviations or unexpected consumption. This allows you to intervene faster.
Benchmarking and comparison
Compare locations with each other or with a historical average. Is one building much less efficient than the rest? Then you know where to start.
Reporting & compliance
Automate reports for internal stakeholders or for obligations such as the EED audit or soon the CSRD.
Simulations and scenario planning
What happens to your consumption if you switch to LED, or install a heat pump? Through simulations, you can invest with confidence.
Who is Energy Data Relevant For?
Actually, for anyone dealing with real estate or energy. Think of property managers, energy advisors, district heating companies, municipalities and governments, and healthcare institutions and schools.
Also check our segment pages, for example about district heating or energy advisors.
Reliable Sources for Energy Data
Want to learn more about available public energy data? The Dutch Government has an overview via data.overheid.nl/communities/energie. Here you’ll find datasets about production, consumption, and infrastructure.
Conclusion: Energy Data as Foundation for Sustainability
Energy data is not a goal in itself, but a means to achieve control, insight, and impact. Whether you want to save costs, become more sustainable, or comply with legislation—it all starts with the right data.
Want to know how your organization can better utilize energy data? Schedule a free demo and discover how we can help you move from insight to impact.