"Does this use up a lot of energy?"
It does use energy, but not as much as you'd think. And with a timer and/or
a thermostat you will use even less. You're reducing water waste,
and get the benefits of quick hot-water.
We highly recommend insulating all of your hot water pipes.
"On your flanges, what does 'ISO' mean?"
The ISO (isolation) flanges have a screwdriver shut-off built into them so
the pump can be removed from the system without turning off the water supply.