How is the energy consumption of a building usually measured?

The energy consumption of a building is typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), which is the standard unit of energy used in electricity billing and monitoring. This measurement quantifies how much electrical energy is consumed over time, making it a reliable indicator of a building's energy use.

Using kWh provides insights into various aspects of energy consumption, such as the efficiency of electrical systems, the impact of energy-saving measures, and comparisons between different buildings or time periods. For instance, if a building is using fewer kWh over time or achieving lower monthly electricity bills, it can indicate improvements in energy efficiency.

Other units of measurement, such as gallons of water or units of heating oil, are relevant to specific utilities but do not provide a comprehensive view of a building's overall energy consumption from all sources. Square footage, while useful for understanding space and potential energy demands, does not directly quantify energy use. In contrast, kWh allows for precise monitoring and management of electrical energy consumption, making it the most applicable choice for measuring energy in the context of buildings.