This paper focuses on an area that has been neglected in energy analysis: the non-energy intensive industries. Using data at the 3-digit level for the Dutch manufacturing industry, we analyzed the performance of the sector with respect to its energy intensity, value added, value of production and energy costs. We found that energy consumption has increased by 30% between 1988 and 1999 while there has not been a decrease on energy intensity. A decomposition analysis was performed in order to separate structural, production and intensity effects. We found that structural changes played a minor role and that in fact, intensity effects added further energy requirements to those induced by output growth. The results of our study highlight the need for policy-makers and scientists to increase their attention to the non-energy intensive sector and encourage industries in these sectors to adopt energy-efficient technologies and management practices. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.