In Germany, research demonstrates that transparent heating systems are generally cost-effective.
Empowering Tenants with Energy Transparency Boosts Conservation Efforts in Germany
Essen, 29. May 2025 — A considerable number of tenants across Germany remain in the dark about their energy consumption, according to a report by ista, despite being entitled to a monthly consumption overview if their apartments are digital-metered. However, where digital data is available, tenants are found to use heating more sparingly, actively addressing costs.
A recent YouGov survey conducted by ista shows that more than half of respondents would prioritize even greater energy savings if they had daily consumption information at their disposal, rather than just a monthly overview. Hagen Lessing, CEO of ista, underscores the importance of transparency, stating that tenants who are aware of their current consumption can adapt their behavior to achieve significant energy and cost savings.
Notably, the study revealed that Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and Saxony are among the regions with the highest heating costs nationwide, as prices have risen since the expiration of energy price brakes for gas and district heating. Simultaneously, these regions have above-average rates of digital meter installation, with up to 80% of buildings equipped, and between 57% and 63% of households receiving regular consumption information. The survey also reveals that households in these areas have been adopting more conservative heating practices compared to the national average.
"Greater transparency and digitization become increasingly important when heating costs become burdensome," Lessing states. "Tenants with access to current consumption data can make targeted changes in their behavior, significantly reducing energy expenses."
Moreover, the survey highlights that two-thirds of tenants believe the federal government should prioritize stronger promotion of energy-efficient building renovations, aiming to achieve climate goals and maintain affordability. Lessing emphasizes the need for a supportive political framework to facilitate sustainable behavior, including easy access to accurate information on energy consumption.
A clear majority of tenants support Germany's ongoing commitment to its climate goals, with 58% rejecting a shift in policy towards that of the USA under President Trump. Lessing concludes that achieving a climate-neutral Germany by 2045 requires a focus on the building sector, including the universal implementation of the right to a monthly consumption overview.
ista, a leading provider of digital services for building energy management, has over 45 million active devices worldwide and serves approximately 460,000 customers in more than 14 million residential and commercial properties globally. In 2024, the company generated a turnover of 1.220 billion euros, continuing its commitment to sustainable building technologies.
- ista.com/de (accessed May 29, 2025)
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- The empowerment of tenants with energy transparency through digital metering can lead to significant energy and cost savings, as highlighted by a study by ista.
- The survey conducted by ista revealed that tenants with regular access to their energy consumption information are found to use heating more sparingly, adapting their behavior towards cost-effective practices.
- Regions like Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and Saxony, where digital meter installation is widespread, have above-average rates of energy conservation compared to the national average.
- Two-thirds of tenants believe that the federal government should prioritize stronger promotion of energy-efficient building renovations to maintain affordability and achieve climate goals.
- Achieving Germany's climate goals requires a focus on the building sector, including the universal implementation of the right to a monthly consumption overview, according to Hagen Lessing, CEO of ista.
