In Belgium

Heating cost allocators are devices fitted to individual radiators in buildings with collective (central) heating systems. They measure the relative heat consumption of each unit, enabling a fairer distribution of heating costs based on actual usage rather than equal division or surface-area-based allocation.

The European Energy Efficiency Directive requires individual metering or allocation in multi-unit buildings. Belgium has transposed this directive, making allocators or individual meters mandatory in larger buildings with collective heating.

How it works

Installation. A small electronic device is attached to each radiator. It measures the temperature difference between the radiator surface and the room, generating a consumption index.

Cost distribution. Total heating costs are split: typically 30-40% based on surface area (fixed share) and 60-70% based on individual allocator readings (variable share).

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Good to know
Heating cost allocators do not measure absolute energy consumption (kWh). They measure relative consumption compared to other units in the building. A unit that consistently heats more will pay a larger share of the total heating bill.

Practical example

A 12-unit building in Brussels has collective gas heating. Total annual heating cost: 18,000 EUR. With allocators: 30% fixed share (based on surface area) + 70% variable (based on readings). A 60 m2 apartment that heats moderately pays 1,200 EUR. A 60 m2 apartment that heats intensively pays 1,800 EUR. Without allocators, both would pay the same 1,500 EUR.