"Electric heating is outrageously expensive!" Have you heard that before? You're not alone. Many homeowners believe that heating with electricity automatically leads to exorbitant energy bills. But is that really the case? In reality, the situation is much more nuanced—and more positive—than you might think.
In this article, I'll take you into the world of heating costs. You'll learn how to calculate, for your own situation, which is more advantageous: gas or electricity. You'll also discover why modern electric heating systems, such as infrared panels and heat pumps, are becoming increasingly attractive. Because beyond the price, there are many other advantages worth considering.
The biggest misconceptions about electric heating
Myth #1: "Electric heating is always more expensive"
That's a far too simplistic view. The cost of electric heating depends on several factors: the type of system chosen, the insulation of your home, and how you use the 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's extremely efficient! Thanks to this, heating costs with a heat pump can even be lower than those of gas, especially if you make smart use of off-peak hours or have solar panels.
Myth #2: "Gas is always the cheapest option"
In recent years, we've clearly seen how much gas prices can fluctuate. Furthermore, fixed costs are often overlooked: the subscription fee and network charges associated with connecting to the gas network. These can easily amount to several hundred euros per year, regardless of your consumption.
Even more important: the future outlook. The Netherlands aims for a complete phase-out of gas by 2050. A growing number of neighborhoods are already disconnected from the gas network. By switching to electric heating now, you're preparing for the future and increasing the value of your home.
Myth #3: "Electric heating is not comfortable"
On the contrary! Modern electric heating 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 sensation is comparable to that of a fireplace: very comfortable.
Unlike traditional radiators that heat the air, infrared heating doesn't dry out the ambient air. This prevents a dry throat or irritated eyes – a real plus for comfort and health.
How to calculate your heating costs: gas versus electricity
Step 1: Determine your heat needs
An average 120 m² house 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 heating requirement is approximately 10,000 kWh.
Step 2: Calculate the cost of gas heating
Example :
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Heating requirement: 10,000 kWh per year
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Efficiency of a gas boiler: approx. 85%
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Energy required: 11,765 kWh (10,000 / 0.85)
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Gas price: €0.08 per kWh
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Annual cost: 11,765 × €0.08 = €941
Note: in addition to this, there are fixed costs for gas connection, which can reach €200 to €300 per year.
Step 3: Calculate the cost of electric heating
Heat pump scenario
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Heat requirement: 10,000 kWh
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COP: 3 (conservative estimate)
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Electricity required: 3,333 kWh
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Electricity price: €0.30 per kWh
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Annual cost: 3,333 × €0.30 = €1,000
Infrared panel scenario
Infrared panels work differently. They don't heat the entire room, but instead direct the heat towards you. This allows you to lower the overall temperature while remaining comfortable. By heating only when and where needed, you can significantly reduce your 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 directly heat people and objects, not the air.
Ideal for:
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Parts used occasionally
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A flexible installation (wall, ceiling, mobile)
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No heavy construction or piping
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Rapid and targeted heating
Heat pumps: maximum efficiency
With a COP of 3 to 4, a heat pump is a champion of efficiency.
Additional benefits:
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Cooling in summer
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Perfect combination with solar panels
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Available subsidies
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Ideal for underfloor heating
Electric underfloor heating: total comfort
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Even heat distribution
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No bulky radiators
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Excellent synergy with a heat pump
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Perfect for new construction or major renovation
Practical tips to reduce your heating costs
Tip 1: Zoned heating with infrared panels
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Heat only the occupied rooms
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Programmable thermostats per room
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Up to 20–30% savings
Tip 2: Combine with solar panels
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Producing your own electricity
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Increased profitability
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Less dependence on suppliers
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Take advantage of falling solar prices
Tip 3: Invest in insulation first
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Reduction in heating requirements of 30 to 50%
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Best efficiency of any system
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Available subsidies
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Guaranteed return on investment
The future is electric: why switching now is a smart move
The Netherlands will be gas-free by 2050
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Neighborhoods gradually becoming disconnected
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Electric homes more valued
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Anticipating future standards
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Avoid costly adaptations later
Lower electricity costs
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More renewable energy
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Advantageous dynamic pricing
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Greener and ultimately cheaper electricity
Living in a more ecological way
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Immediate reduction of the CO₂ footprint
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Less dependence on fossil fuels
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Contribution to a sustainable future
Conclusion: Make the right choice for your situation
Electric heating isn't necessarily more expensive than gas. With the right systems – like a heat pump or intelligently used infrared panels – you can even save money. Plus, it offers greater comfort and is a real step towards future-proofing.
The best choice depends on your personal situation: the size of your home, its insulation, and your heating habits. Fortunately, modern solutions are making electric heating increasingly attractive.
Want to know exactly what's best for you? Calculate it 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.