Federal Funding for Energy and Resource Efficiency in the Economy – Module 4: Energy- and Resource-Related Optimization of Plants and Processes

The federal funding program for energy and resource efficiency in the economy – Module 4 is aimed at companies, cooperatives, and start-ups throughout Germany that wish to sustainably optimize their technical equipment, procedures, and processes. The program’s goal is to promote investments in energy- and resource-efficient technologies and thereby unlock significant savings potential in everyday business operations. Eligible costs include investment expenses for the purchase or modernization of technical equipment as well as accompanying planning and project management services. The grant rate is flexible, ranging between 20% and 40%, depending on the size of the company and the expected efficiency improvement. Applications can be submitted continuously until the available funds are exhausted.

A prerequisite for funding is the existence of an energy audit according to DIN EN 16247-1 (or an equivalent alternative) as well as proof of an initial BAFA consultation (Module 1) for small and medium-sized enterprises or a fee-based consulting module for large companies. For the application, in addition to the application form, a detailed project description including savings potential, cost estimates for the planned measures, and evidence of the energy audit and initial consultation must be submitted. Approval is based on the economic viability of the project, feasibility within 24 months, and the expected energy and resource savings. With this funding, the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy contributes to the modernization of industrial processes and climate protection by supporting companies across all sectors in making their operational processes more efficient and resource-conserving.