Promotion of Energy Efficiency and CO2 Reduction in Agriculture and Horticulture: Part A – Agricultural Production, Knowledge Transfer

The Federal Program for Energy Efficiency and CO₂ Reduction in Agriculture and Horticulture Part A supports companies in primary agricultural production and horticulture in implementing comprehensive energy audits, individual efficiency measures, as well as knowledge transfer and research projects. Nationwide eligible to apply are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), producer groups, providers of informational measures, and research institutions. The funding enables measure-specific or complete energy audits according to DIN EN 16247-1 to be conducted and the acquisition of highly efficient technologies for stationary and mobile energy use. Furthermore, projects for exchanging best practices as well as innovative research and development projects from technology readiness level 5 onwards are supported. The financial contribution is based on eligible expenses and ranges between 30% and 100%, depending on the measure.

A prerequisite for funding is an operational site located in Germany as well as the complete implementation and commissioning of the measures within the approval period. Technical installations must be operated for at least five years, and the projects must comply with European and national environmental regulations. Companies with more than 25% public equity participation or those in financial difficulty are excluded. Acquisition and consulting costs, expenses for scientific knowledge transfer, as well as research and development are among the eligible items. Once the application process reopens, funding applications can be submitted to the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE). The program makes an important contribution to achieving the 2030 climate protection targets and promotes a future-proof, resource-efficient energy supply in the agriculture and horticulture sectors.