Captive uses of electricity in the EU

  • Electrical appliances (both large and small) and lighting are the so-called captive uses of electricity. They exclude thermal uses.
  • Electrical appliances represent the largest share of captive uses of electricity. This share has been increasing over the years, from 80% in 2000 to 83% in 2010 and 86% in 2021.
  • The specific consumption per dwelling for lighting is decreasing thanks to the phase out of incandescent light bulbs. It now currently accounts for 14% of captive electricity, compared to 20% in 2000.

Consumption per dwelling for appliances and lighting (EU)