What is energy monitoring (Energiemonitoring)?
Energiemonitoring is a system that:
Continuously measures energy consumption (electricity, gas, water)
Analyses the data and detects unnecessary consumption
Sends alerts when consumption exceeds a defined threshold
Provides weekly/monthly reports to help you make effective decisions
What are the ideal specifications for a smart device in a small shop?
Feature
What it should support
Type of measurement
Electricity (230 V or 400 V), sometimes heat/gas as well
User interface
Mobile app or web-based dashboard
Level of detail
Consumption per hour/day, comparison of different periods
Connectivity
Wi-Fi or LAN – usually without the need for a separate gateway
Export
CSV / Excel so the data can be used in efficiency or subsidy reports
Alerts
Notifications when a certain consumption level is exceeded
Compatibility
With other devices (e.g. sub-meters or Home Assistant)
Best suitable devices/systems currently (2025)
Device / provider – Advantages – Approximate price
EMH eHZ Smart Meter
Advantage: Smart meter with support for an energy gateway
Price: €150–250
Discovergy Smart Meter
Advantage: Includes gateway, web & app interface, support for CO₂ reports
Price: from €250 + subscription
Smappee Infinity
Advantage: Multi-line monitoring, device detection
Price: from €400
Voltaware Business
Advantage: Smart analytics, device-level consumption reports
Price: monthly SaaS model
Emlog Energiemonitor
Advantage: Very simple, designed for retailers and restaurants
Price: €120–180
When is such a device necessary?
Situation – Recommendation
Shop with fridges or strong lighting
Yes – to understand operating costs
Operation with industrial machines or bakeries
Highly recommended – to monitor load peaks
You want to apply for investment support (e.g. BAFA energy consulting)
Necessary – as part of an efficiency report
Very small shop without cooling or machines
A classic electricity meter may be sufficient
Is the device treated as a business expense?
Yes, it is classified as a business expense (Betriebsausgabe) and is tax-deductible.
If the project is part of an energy efficiency improvement plan, you may also qualify for support from:
BAFA Energieberatung KMU
or the funding programme “Bundesförderung für effiziente Gebäude (BEG)”
The editorial team of the website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and consulting multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur or some information may not be fully confirmed. Therefore, please regard the information in the articles as an initial point of reference and always consult the competent authorities to obtain definitive and reliable information.
