BAFA module 3: funding for energy management software and measurement technology

+++ Energy consulting blog series (part 4) +++ The digitisation and automation of energy management processes are crucial levers for sustainably increasing energy efficiency in companies. Module 3 of the German ‘Energy Efficiency in Business’ (EEW) funding programme offers companies targeted support in implementing energy management software as well as measurement and control (German: 'MSR') technology. This article explains which measures are subsidised, how to apply and what a specific practical example looks like.

What does EEW module 3 cover?

EEW module 3 (also known as BAFA module 3) focuses on digital and automated solutions for energy management. The BAFA (German Federal Office of Economics and Export Control) provides funding for the purchase of software, the necessary measurement technology and integration into existing systems. The aim is to record, analyse and optimally control energy flows in real time. This can bring significant energy savings and cost advantages in all sectors.

• Energy management software: tools for data collection, analysis and optimisation of energy consumption
• Measurement and control technology (MSR): hardware and software for measuring and automatically controlling energy flows
• Sensor technology and IoT technologies: networked devices for real-time data collection
  
  

Key funding points

The funding of EEW module 3 is attractively designed to support companies in modernising their energy management systems:

1. Funding level:
   • 25% funding for large companies
   • 35% funding for medium-sized companies
   • 45% funding for medium-sized companies
2. Funded measures:
   • Acquisition and implementation of energy management software
   • Installation of sensors, meters and other measurement technologies
   • Integration of MSR technologies into production and building systems
   • Training for employees on how to use the new systems
     
     

Practical example: energy management in plastics processing

A case study from EurA's consulting practice illustrates the funding:

A medium-sized company in the plastics industry decided to digitalise its energy management in order to make its production processes more energy efficient. The following measures were implemented as part of BAFA module 3:

1. Implementation of an energy management software: A specialised software was introduced that records and evaluates the energy consumption of all machines in real time.
2. Installation of measurement and control technology: Intelligent sensors were installed on all production facilities to provide data on electricity consumption.
3. Training of employees: The staff was trained in the use of the software to interpret energy data and to carry out optimisations.

The investment costs amounted to approximately 80,000 euros. Thanks to funding from the EEW module 3, the company received a subsidy of approximately 28,000 euros.

Advantages of digitalising energy management

• Transparency: Companies can monitor and optimise their energy flows in real time.
• Cost efficiency: The savings in energy consumption and costs are considerable.
• Climate protection: Lower energy consumption also reduces CO₂ emissions.
• Future-proof: Companies become less dependent on rising energy prices and stricter climate requirements.
  
  

Conclusion

Module 3 of the EEW programme offers companies the opportunity to make their energy flows more efficient while also benefiting from an attractive subsidy. Particularly in sectors with high energy costs, the digitalisation of energy management is an important step towards sustainability and competitiveness. Companies that invest in the automation and optimisation of their energy systems can not only reduce their costs, but also make an active contribution to climate protection.

You too can benefit from government funding for your energy management software and take advantage of our expertise in energy consulting. We are also happy to assist you with the introduction of an energy management system.

Text: Mathias Wendt