SMEs can now benefit from up to €6,000 for funded energy audits

Have you ever wondered how an energy audit can affect the operations of your business?

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Malta can now benefit from a funded Energy Audit with grants of up to €6,000. This scheme, managed by the Energy and Water Agency (EWA), is there to assist businesses in assessing the energy consumption of their core operations. With the guidance of experts and minimal investment, these energy audits can help businesses adopt greener choices, improve efficiency, and lower operational costs.

What is an energy audit, and what are the different types?

An Energy Audit is a detailed review of how your enterprise consumes energy — including electricity, water and fuels. It is conducted by a certified Energy Auditor and results in a tailored set of recommendations to help improve efficiency and reduce waste. The auditor will prepare a report, which includes cost-saving opportunities and a list of other funding schemes you may be eligible for when implementing the recommendations.

Whether you implement no-cost behavioural changes, invest in quick-return improvements, or consider industry-specific technologies, the audit empowers your business to make smarter energy decisions. Most importantly, it could help you save thousands of euros – sometimes at zero upfront cost.

Type 1 – Walk-Through Audit: A basic inspection to identify maintenance issues, energy inefficiencies, and areas for improvement. It includes estimated energy savings and quick-fix recommendations, ideal for small companies or as a preliminary audit for larger businesses.

Type 2 – Investment Grade Audit: A detailed analysis for businesses planning to invest in energy efficiency. It includes an energy balance, cost-benefit assessment, and a financing plan to evaluate the feasibility of energy-saving measures.

Type 3 – Energy Diagnosis: A cost-effective audit providing a balanced level of detail, including metered data on energy consumption and losses. The report offers financial analysis for energy-saving measures, helping businesses prioritise cost-effective actions. This is usually carried out as part of an Energy Management System, to satisfy efficiency obligations.

The Scheme offered by EWA will allow SME to carry an audit between Level 2 and 3, providing the perfect starting block for any company to become more efficient.

Who can apply?

The scheme is open to Small and Medium sized enterprises (SMEs), employing between 1- and 249 people. Other eligibility criteria with regards to turnover apply.

If your enterprise employs fewer than 10 people, you may benefit from a free consultation under the ‘Energy & Water Awareness in Micro SMEs’ initiative.

The grant covers either part or all the cost of a certified Energy Audit, with the maximum amount being €6,000, depending on the size and sector of the enterprise.

Scheme A, SMEs that have received less than €300,000 in state aid over the last three years are eligible for a 100% refund.

Scheme B provides a 70-80% refund for businesses exceeding this threshold. Additionally, businesses that provide a more detailed template for one of the suggested measures can receive an additional €500 grant. This applies under both schemes.

Ready to get started?

This scheme makes it easier than ever for Maltese SMEs to improve their energy efficiency, lower operating costs, and access expert advice — all with the help of government funding.

Visit our website and view the application process.

E-mail your queries to energyefficiency@gov.mt or call EWA on 2229 2558.