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The NutsCode, or "Utility Code", is the addition of the gas and power bills, on an annual basis, all-inclusive. It can be reported in Euros or in dollars. A typical NutsCode can be for example €3600 of $2500. In many European countries, natural gas is the most important source for space and water heating for companies and households. However, the NutsCode also contains the cost of heating oil, wood, district heating or coal. In fact, it is the annual bill of the energy sources used in a certain building, both for individuals and businesses. Often, this is related to comfort, relaxation, food and hygiene.

More comfort with fewer resources. The comparison of the actual consumption figures plays a central role in meeting this goal. It appears that few people are aware of how much energy they purchase each year, which makes it difficult for them to judge whether this amount is relatively high or low. The NutsCode has been designed to lay out the foundations for discussions about energy. The granularity is high: the code compares energy use on the level of postal code areas. Of course, the conservation of a comfortable and healthy living and working environment is the central issue.

The NutsCode is strongly related to income. This makes sense, because higher income households spend more on electric appliances and live in larger houses that require more lighting and heating. It is therefore better to ask the question if someone spend more or less than one month's salary on utility bills. This is a good measure for the person's energy efficiency. If the NutsCode equals the net monthly income, the NutsCode index equals 1. A NutsCode equal to 1,5 times a monthly salary has an associated index of 1.5. This index makes comparisons across borders easier.