Federal Funding for Energy and Resource Efficiency in Industry (Grant) – Support for Energy- and Resource-Related Optimization of Equipment and Processes (Module 4)

The Federal Funding for Energy and Resource Efficiency in the Economy – Module 4 supports small and medium-sized enterprises in investments to optimize industrial and commercial equipment and processes. Funding is provided for replacement investments in specific technology categories, including electrically powered industrial trucks, injection molding machines, laser cutters, paint booths, or refrigerated display cases. The prerequisite is that the replacement equipment serves the same purpose, the old equipment has been in operation for at least five years, and the final energy demand is reduced by at least 15%. An additional ancillary cost subsidy of up to 30% covers, among other things, planning, installation, and documentation. Small enterprises receive a 15% grant on the total eligible investment costs, medium-sized enterprises 10%. Applications can be submitted until December 31, 2028; equipment replacement and invoice payments must be completed within 36 months after approval.

Additionally, the premium funding enables technology-neutral projects with investments in process heat, waste heat utilization, electrification, or resource-efficient processes. A professionally substantiated “savings concept” documents your greenhouse gas reduction potential and a payback period of more than three years. The funding rate is determined according to EU state aid law: energy efficiency measures (Art. 38 GBER) receive up to 25% (large enterprises), 35% (medium), 45% (small) funding; in the case of additional investment costs, there is even a bonus. A “decarbonization bonus” of 5–10 percentage points is available for projects using renewable energies, hydrogen, or external waste heat utilization. Binding applications and proof of use must be submitted electronically to BAFA to secure funding within the deadline.