Energy Label Calculator: Check Your Home's Rating

Every home in the Netherlands has an energy label ranging from A++++ (most efficient) to G (least efficient). If you are buying a home, the energy label tells you a lot about future energy costs, comfort, and even the property's value. Use the calculator below to get an indication of a home's energy label based on its characteristics.

What is an energy label?

An energy label (officially called an Energieprestatiecertificaat or EPC) rates how energy-efficient a home is. The scale runs from A++++ (energy-neutral, producing as much energy as it uses) down to G (very poor energy performance). The label is determined by factors like insulation quality, heating systems, glazing, ventilation, and renewable energy sources such as solar panels.

In the Netherlands, every home that is sold or rented out must have a valid, registered energy label. This has been mandatory since 2015 for sales and since 2008 for rentals. The label is issued by a certified EPA advisor (Energieprestatieadviseur) after an on-site inspection of the property.

Why the energy label matters when buying a home

As an expat buying property in the Netherlands, the energy label deserves your attention for several reasons.

Energy costs

Dutch energy prices are among the highest in Europe. A home with label G can easily cost over €2,500 per year in energy, while a label A home might cost under €1,000. Over ten years of ownership, that difference adds up to €15,000 or more.

Property value

Energy labels directly affect property values. Research shows that homes with poor labels (D through G) sell for 2% to 15% less than comparable homes with a B label. Conversely, improving a home's energy label increases its market value.

Mortgage benefits

Some Dutch mortgage lenders offer better conditions for energy-efficient homes. With a "green mortgage" (groene hypotheek), you may qualify for a lower interest rate or borrow extra money specifically for energy-saving improvements. If you are applying for NHG (National Mortgage Guarantee), the cost limit increases by 6% when you finance energy improvements.

Comfort

Beyond the financial aspects, a well-insulated home with modern heating is simply more comfortable to live in. Dutch winters are damp and cold, and good insulation makes a noticeable difference in living quality.

Understanding the label classes

Here is what each label range typically means in terms of annual energy costs for an average 120 m² home:

How to improve an energy label

If you are considering a home with a lower label, or want to improve your current home's rating, these are the most impactful measures:

Insulation is usually the best starting point. Roof insulation, cavity wall insulation, and floor insulation significantly reduce heat loss. Double or triple glazing (HR++ or HR+++) replaces older single or double-pane windows.

Heating system upgrades make a big difference. Replacing an old boiler with a modern HR (high-efficiency) boiler or a heat pump (warmtepomp) improves both the label and your energy bills.

Solar panels (zonnepanelen) directly improve the energy label by generating renewable electricity. The Netherlands has a net-metering scheme (salderingsregeling) that lets you offset your energy consumption with solar production, though this scheme is being phased out gradually.

Ventilation improvements such as mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (WTW) help reduce energy loss while maintaining good air quality.

Getting an official energy label

The calculator above gives you an indication, but an official energy label requires an on-site inspection by a certified EPA advisor. The advisor examines the property's insulation, heating, ventilation, and other factors. The process typically takes 1 to 2 hours, after which you receive a registered certificate.

Costs for an official energy label vary by property type:

The official label is valid for 10 years from the date of registration.