Promoting energy conservation in small and medium-sized companies

To avoid the risk of global warming, energy conservation becomes more and more important. In small and medium-sized firms there are still many obstacles to using all profitable energy-saving investments and organizational measures. In a recent study, detailed technical analyses in eight branches as well as indepth interviews and a broad telephone survey with firms were carried out. As a conclusion, a bundle of activities is suggested to overcome the obstacles. Above all, motivation of company managers, improved energy consultation, use of the multiplicator function of the association and a stronger engagement of the state and the utilities are needed.