The project investigated how food SMEs can reduce their energy consumption and replace part of the energy used with renewable energy. Based on a preliminary analysis of the food industry, the two most important sub-sectors in terms of energy use by SMEs are the bakery and meat processing sectors. In this research, potential energy efficiency investments were identified on the basis of energy loss mapping studies carried out in three food SMEs by Wattmanager Kft. Thus, the energy audits allowed us to identify the potential savings in the sector based on real, practical examples. The identified investment opportunities were assessed on the basis of their discounted payback period, and their savings and investment costs were then projected to the sectoral level, taking into account the overall applicability and relevance of the potential investments. The reference scenario estimates that the energy consumption of SMEs in the sector could be reduced by 14% with investments that pay back within 15 years, at a total investment cost of HUF 51 billion. The annual energy cost would be reduced from HUF 71 billion to HUF 58 billion. In the optimistic scenario, the energy savings could reach 39%. In addition to the savings potential estimation, Wattmanager and REKK staff have also produced a handbook on the most important savings opportunities for SMEs in the food industry.

Related event:

October 10, 2024: Decarbonisation opportunities for food SMEs in Hungary