Running a gym isn’t just about fitness—it’s also about high energy bills. From lighting to heating, treadmills to saunas, gyms are one of the most energy-intensive businesses in the UK leisure sector.
At Scalex Technology, we help UK gym owners take control of their energy usage and reduce overheads. Let’s break down how much electricity and gas a typical gym uses, and how you can start cutting costs today.
⚡ Average Energy Usage for a UK Gym
The amount of energy your gym consumes depends on:
- Size of the facility
- Opening hours
- Types of equipment
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
- Hot water and showers
- Pools, saunas, or steam rooms (if any)

💡 Electricity Usage
Most gyms use electricity to power:
- Cardio machines (treadmills, bikes, rowers)
- Lighting (often running 16+ hours/day)
- TVs, sound systems, and computers
- HVAC systems
- Electric water heaters
🧾 Average electricity use:
60,000 – 200,000 kWh/year
(Small gyms may use 50,000 kWh, while large health clubs can exceed 250,000 kWh/year.)
🔥 Gas Usage
Gas is usually used for:
- Space heating
- Hot water for showers
- Pool heating (if applicable)
🧾 Average gas use:
40,000 – 150,000 kWh/year
💷 What Does That Mean in Costs?
Using average 2025 commercial rates:
- Electricity at 30p/kWh:
→ 100,000 kWh = £30,000/year - Gas at 10p/kWh:
→ 80,000 kWh = £8,000/year
That’s £38,000+ per year in energy costs alone—before standing charges, VAT, and Climate Change Levy.
🧠 Why Are Gyms High Energy Users?
- 🏃 Equipment runs for hours without pause
- 🚿 Hot water demand is high
- ❄️ HVAC systems need to maintain temperature control
- 💡 Lighting is extensive, especially in 24/7 gyms
- 🔥 Sauna and steam rooms consume significant power
✅ How to Reduce Your Gym’s Energy Consumption
1. Switch to LED Lighting
Cut lighting costs by up to 60% with energy-efficient LEDs.
2. Install Smart Meters
Get real-time data on usage spikes and inefficiencies.
3. Upgrade HVAC Systems
Modern heating and cooling units are far more efficient.
4. Use Occupancy Sensors
Automatically control lighting and heating in changing rooms and lesser-used areas.
5. Switch to Renewable or Green Energy Tariffs
Support sustainability goals and reduce your carbon footprint.
🧾 Need Help Managing Your Energy Bills?
At Scalex Technology, we offer tailored solutions for gyms and leisure facilities:
- 🔍 Free bill audits
- 📉 Energy contract comparison
- 🧮 Smart meter installations
- 💡 LED and equipment upgrade advice
- 🌱 Green energy switching
📣 Power Up Your Gym, Not Your Bills
Running a gym is demanding—your energy bills don’t have to be. Let Scalex Technology help you get a custom utility quote and reduce your costs today.