Project office to support the implementation of the pilot programme for energy saving meters (ESZ)

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On behalf of the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA), the ‘Projektbüro Einsparzähler’ (Energy Saving Meter Project Office) has been supporting the implementation of the pilot programme of the same name since January 2021. The project office is a consortium of co2online, ÖKOTEC, ifeu, SEnerCon and DENEFF. Over the next one to two years, it will provide methodological and organisational support to the funding authority BAFA and the companies participating in the Einsparzähler programme. In addition to developing concepts, technical reports and information sheets, this also includes quality assurance for measurement concepts during on-site visits and the organisation of events.

Harnessing the trend towards digitalisation for energy efficiency

Since 2016, the German government has been promoting digital business models for energy efficiency through the Einsparzähler pilot programme. The aim is to save electricity, heat and other energy sources with the help of digital technologies and platforms. The pilot programme has been very successful and Einsparzähler has made a name for itself as a test field for innovative digital business models, both among providers of smart services and, increasingly, among established energy service companies: over 70 energy service providers, energy suppliers and measurement technology providers are currently implementing Einsparzähler projects. Some of them have already succeeded in establishing viable business models on the market and positioning themselves as players in the digital energy transition. The business models of the funded companies are aimed at industrial customers, private households, commercial customers and public institutions.

Success-based funding

What makes this programme special is that it provides performance-based funding. Part of the government subsidy is only paid out if energy savings can be demonstrated. The installation of digital meters and transmission technology is also eligible for funding under the programme.

Previous experience through pilot programme

Between 2016 and 2019, a consortium comprising co2online, ÖKOTEC and ifeu provided technical support for the pilot programme as the ‘Einsparzähler project office’. This ranged from information events for potential applicants and numerous specialist workshops on relevant topics to conducting surveys of funding recipients, on-site inspections and evaluating the first funding phase. This previous experience can now be built upon.

The Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) administers the Einsparzähler pilot programme on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. Further information from the BAFA on the pilot programme can be found here.