Generally, the smaller electric stove top is more energy efficient than the bigger one, assuming both have the same power rating (wattage). Here's why:
The energy efficiency of an electric stove top is determined by how effectively it transfers heat to the cookware and the cooking surface. When you have a smaller stove top, there is less surface area for the heat to dissipate, which means more of the heat generated by the heating element is concentrated in a smaller space.
On the other hand, a larger stove top has more surface area, and some of the heat may be lost to the surrounding air instead of being efficiently transferred to the cookware. As a result, a larger stove top may require more energy to achieve the same level of heating as a smaller stove top with the same wattage.
However, it's essential to consider your cooking needs and habits when choosing between stove top sizes. If you regularly cook large meals or use oversized cookware, a larger stove top might be more practical despite slightly lower energy efficiency. Conversely, if you mainly cook for one or two people and use smaller pots and pans, a smaller stove top might be the more energy-efficient option.
Keep in mind that the actual energy efficiency of your electric stove top will also depend on other factors, such as the quality of the cookware, the material and thickness of the pot or pan, and your cooking techniques. Using flat-bottomed cookware that matches the stove top size and keeping lids on pots while cooking can further improve energy efficiency regardless of the stove top size.