The purpose of energy efficiency in industry is to use energy cost-effectively with minimum environmental impact. Favourable basic conditions, effective service providers and energy-saving products encourage industrial firms, their managers and personnel to manufacture in a more efficient and cleaner way.

Better use of energy resources reduces operating costs and makes production cleaner, thus boosting competitiveness. At the same time, without additional cost, such measures minimise air pollution. The macroeconomic benefit manifests itself in reduced energy demand, which helps to defer the expansion of power plant capacity.

GIZ provides the following services:

Improving the framework conditions: Providing policy advice on the adjustment of standards, guidelines and regulations, creation of market-based incentives, developing client-focused financial services and optimising state energy conservation programmes. Industrial use of renewable energy sources is fostered.

Enhancing the services available: This involves the provision of training through associations and other intermediaries. Energy and resource efficiency benchmarking systems permit national and international comparisons. The interdisciplinary combination of energy and environmental management is aimed at the use of refuse-derived fuel. Contracting arrangements and build-own-operate (BOO) schemes are introduced.

Shaping demand: This is done by improving consumer protection, and identifying and implementing a complex catalogue of measures and tools. Demand is stimulated by providing access to new technologies and fostering efficiency agencies. Awareness of energy and cost efficiency is raised in companies.

Special priorities can be set depending on the situation and specific needs.