Energy consumption in EU homes continues to decline

According to fresh Eurostat data published on 25 June 2025, the energy consumption of European Union households in 2023 is 9.6 million terajoules, 5.6% less than in 2022 (10.1 million TJ). This is the second consecutive annual decline after a record peak in 2021 (11.0 million TJ). Thus, the steady downward trend in household energy demand in the EU is confirmed.

Households accounted for 26.2 per cent of total final energy consumption in the EU in 2023, making them one of the largest sectors in terms of consumption.

Space heating still accounts for the largest share of household consumption at 62.5 per cent, followed by water heating (15.1 per cent). These two items together account for 77.6% of total consumption. This is followed by lighting and electrical appliances (14.5%), but does not include electricity used for heating, cooling or cooking.

Cooking accounts for 6.5 per cent of the energy consumed, while categories such as space cooling (0.6 per cent) and other needs (0.8 per cent) occupy a minor share.

Based on 2023 data, the energy consumption pattern of households was as follows:

• natural gas provided 29.5 per cent of the requirements,
• electricity - 25.9 per cent,
• renewable sources and biofuels - 23.5 per cent.

It is important to note that the report defines "renewable sources" as only those consumed directly in the home: wood pellets, firewood, biogas, solar thermal systems and heat pumps. Renewable electricity from the grid (e.g. hydro or wind power) is counted under the general category "electricity".

The decline in household energy consumption can be attributed to several factors at once: improvements in the energy efficiency of homes, a switch to more energy-efficient appliances, changes in household habits and possibly the effects of price pressure on consumers. It also partly reflects the EU's climate neutralisation efforts, as lower demand makes it easier to switch to clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.