Varmeforbruk

Varmeforbruk is a term used in Danish and Norwegian contexts to denote the energy consumed for heating a building or premises. It is typically expressed in kilowatt-hours (kWh), megawatt-hours (MWh) or gigajoules (GJ).

The size of varmeforbruk depends on climate, building age, and envelope performance, as well as the building size, number of occupants, and occupant behavior such as thermostat settings. Operational factors include heating equipment efficiency, distribution losses, and whether the building is connected to district heating or uses individual boilers or heat pumps.

Heating systems influence varmeforbruk. District heating, natural gas or oil boilers, electric boilers, and heat pumps differ in efficiency and emissions. Modern heat pumps with high COPs reduce energy use for the same heat output, especially in well-insulated buildings. Energy recovery ventilation and smart controls can further reduce consumption.

Measurement and analysis. Varmeforbruk is tracked via utility bills or meters. Degree-day methods estimate consumption under different weather, and energy audits identify savings opportunities.

Policy and environmental aspects. Reducing varmeforbruk is a core goal of energy efficiency and climate policy, with building envelope standards, equipment efficiency requirements, and retrofit incentives. The concept supports energy labeling and decarbonization of heating sectors.