Keeping energy costs low
"Electric heating is incredibly expensive!" Have you heard that before? You're not alone. Many homeowners think that heating with electricity automatically leads to an enormous energy bill. But is that really the case? In reality, the situation is much more nuanced – and more positive – than you might think.
In this article, we take you into the world of heating costs. You will discover how to calculate, for your own situation, what is more affordable: gas or electricity. You will also find out why modern electric heating systems, such as infrared panels and heat pumps, are becoming increasingly attractive. Because beyond price, there are many other advantages worth considering.
The biggest misconceptions about electric heating
Misconception 1: "Electric heating is always more expensive"
This is an oversimplification. The cost of electric heating depends on several factors: the type of system chosen, the insulation of your home and the way you use your heating.
A modern heat pump, for example, has a COP (Coefficient of Performance) of 3 to 4. This means that for every kWh of electricity consumed, you get 3 to 4 kWh of heat. That is extremely efficient! As a result, heating costs with a heat pump can even be lower than gas, especially if you make smart use of off-peak hours or if you have solar panels.
Misconception 2: "Gas is always the cheapest option"
In recent years we have seen how much gas prices can fluctuate. On top of that, fixed costs are often forgotten: the subscription and network costs associated with a gas connection. These can easily amount to several hundred euros per year, regardless of your consumption.
Even more importantly: the future outlook. The Netherlands is aiming for a complete phase-out of gas by 2050. More and more neighbourhoods are already being disconnected from the gas network. By switching to electric heating now, you are preparing for the future and increasing the value of your home.
Misconception 3: "Electric heating is not comfortable"
On the contrary! Modern electric systems, such as infrared panels, provide very pleasant warmth. Infrared heating emits rays that directly warm your body and the objects in the room. The feeling is comparable to that of a fireplace: very comfortable.
Unlike traditional radiators that heat the air, infrared heating does not dry out the ambient air. This means no dry throat or irritated eyes – a real advantage for comfort and health.
How to calculate heating costs: gas versus electricity
Step 1: determine your heat demand
An average home of 120 m² requires approximately 10,000 kWh of heat per year. For a more precise calculation, consult your gas bill and check your annual consumption in m³.
Practical conversion: 1 m³ of gas provides approximately 9.9 kWh of energy.
For example, if you consume 1,010 m³ of gas per year, your heat demand is approximately 10,000 kWh.
Step 2: calculate the cost of gas heating
Example:
- Heat demand: 10,000 kWh per year
- Efficiency of a gas boiler: approximately 85%
- Energy required: 11,765 kWh (10,000 / 0.85)
- Gas price: €0.08 per kWh
- Annual cost: 11,765 × €0.08 = €941
Please note: fixed gas connection costs must be added to this, which can amount to €200 to €300 per year.
Step 3: calculate the cost of electric heating
Heat pump scenario
- Heat demand: 10,000 kWh
- COP: 3 (conservative estimate)
- Electricity required: 3,333 kWh
- Electricity price: €0.30 per kWh
- Annual cost: 3,333 × €0.30 = €1,000
Infrared panel scenario
Infrared panels work differently. They do not heat the entire room, but radiate heat directly towards you. You can therefore lower the general temperature while remaining comfortable. By heating only when and where needed, it is possible to significantly reduce energy costs.
The advantages of modern electric heating systems
Infrared panels: the smart choice
Infrared panels have a radiation efficiency of 40 to 70%. They heat people and objects directly, not the air.
Ideal for:
- Rooms used occasionally
- Flexible installation (wall, ceiling, furniture)
- No heavy construction work or pipework
- Fast and targeted heating
Heat pumps: maximum efficiency
With a COP of 3 to 4, a heat pump is a champion of efficiency.
Additional advantages:
- Cooling in summer
- Perfect combination with solar panels
- Subsidies available
- Ideal for underfloor heating
Electric underfloor heating: total comfort
- Even heat distribution
- No bulky radiators
- Excellent synergy with a heat pump
- Perfect for new builds or major renovations
Practical tips for reducing heating costs
Tip 1: zone heating with infrared panels
- Only heat occupied rooms
- Programmable thermostats for each room
- Up to 20–30% savings
Tip 2: combine with solar panels
- Generate your own electricity
- Greater return on investment
- Less dependency on suppliers
- Benefit from falling solar prices
Tip 3: invest in insulation first
- Reduction in heat demand of 30 to 50%
- Better efficiency of any system
- Subsidies available
- Guaranteed return on investment
The future is electric: why switching now is a wise choice
The Netherlands gas-free by 2050
- Neighbourhoods progressively disconnected
- Electric homes more highly valued
- Anticipating future regulations
- Avoiding costly adaptations later
Falling electricity costs
- More renewable energy
- Advantageous dynamic tariffs
- Greener and in the long term cheaper electricity
Living more sustainably
- Immediate reduction of CO₂ footprint
- Less dependence on fossil fuels
- Contributing to a sustainable future
Conclusion: make the right choice for your situation
Electric heating is therefore not necessarily more expensive than gas. With the right systems – such as a heat pump or intelligently used infrared panels – you can even save money. It also offers greater comfort and genuine future-proofing.
The best choice depends on your personal situation: the size of your home, insulation and heating habits. Fortunately, modern solutions are making electric heating increasingly attractive.
Would you like to know exactly what suits your situation? Do the calculation using the steps in this article or ask our experts for advice. One thing is certain: the future of heating is electric – and it starts now.