Energy Management Systems for SMEs" is the first nationwide funding programme to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the introduction of energy management systems (EnMS). The aim of the programme is to reduce energy consumption and increase energy efficiency. To this end, the programme offers financial support for external consultancy services and investments in technical equipment for the introduction and certification of EnMS. The interim evaluation of the funding programme analyses the impact of the funding and makes recommendations to improve the programme's effectiveness.

The results of the evaluation show significant energy savings in the participating companies. Despite these strategic achievements, the operational objectives were not fully met. The number of projects funded was well below target and only 50% of the funding was used.

The interim evaluation shows that the funding programme is a valuable initiative, but in its current form does not provide optimal support to SMEs. The evaluation therefore recommends that the programme should not be extended. Instead, the existing environmental support and advice programmes should be optimised through improved exchange of experience, qualified advice and clear quality standards.