BFE Institut für Energie und Umwelt GmbH
About us
“Rethinking energy. Acting sustainably. Shaping the future.”
This is not just a slogan, but a mission that BFE Institut für Energie und Umwelt GmbH has been passionately pursuing for over 45 years.
BFE is a management consultancy specializing in energy efficiency and sustainability. Founded in 1979, we are among the leading players in our field and have supported countless companies in maximizing energy efficiency, reducing costs, and improving their carbon footprint.
With tailored energy solutions and comprehensive consulting services, BFE turns visions of efficiency and sustainability into tangible reality. Our interdisciplinary team of experts develops innovative, customized energy concepts that are both economically viable and environmentally sound.
As a 100% subsidiary of MVV Energie AG, BFE is part of one of Germany’s leading energy companies, which aims to become climate-neutral by 2035 and climate-positive thereafter.
Products & services
Energy audit
With a professional energy audit, you gain transparency over your energy consumption, identify concrete efficiency potentials, and comply with legal requirements. This enables you to sustainably reduce costs and CO₂ emissions. Why and for whom an energy audit is essential Companies with more than 250 employees or an annual turnover exceeding €50 million and a balance sheet total of more than €43 million are classified as non-SMEs. If their annual energy consumption is below 7.5 GWh, they are required to carry out regular energy audits. Beyond this obligation, an energy audit provides valuable insights into your energy productivity, allowing concrete savings potentials to be identified. Legal requirements at a glance: EnEfG, BAFA & repeat audits • Mandatory energy audits every four years for non-SMEs with energy consumption below 7.5 GWh • EnEfG requirement: Companies with energy consumption above 2.5 GWh must identify, implement, and publish energy-saving measures • Obligation to submit an online declaration to BAFA • Consequences of non-compliance: fines and reputational risks Our Services – From Audit to Implementation: How You Truly Benefit Conducting an audit fulfils the legal requirement, but only implementation delivers real savings. We help you transform audit findings into measurable results: • Conducting and documenting the energy audit • Support with the BAFA online declaration • Energy measurement, monitoring, and development of performance indicators • Support during the implementation of efficiency measures • Funding advisory and application support • Verification and documentation of achieved savings Preparation of a CO₂e footprint
Efficiency measures
After the preparation of profitability analyses, energy supply concepts, energy audits, or sustainability transformation plans, the decisive next step begins: implementation. We do not leave you to manage this alone. With our experience and strong network, we support you in implementing all measures you plan to realize – practical, solution-oriented, and tailored to your specific requirements. Why investing in efficiency measures pays off A solid concept is only the starting point. Success lies in successful implementation. Our support ensures that your measures are implemented efficiently, in a funding-eligible manner, and with clear objectives: • Avoidance of poor decisions through independent advisory services • Selection of suitable technologies and providers • Ensuring target achievement, e.g. CO₂e reduction and cost efficiency • Optimal use of available funding opportunities • Relief for your internal resources Our Services – What we take care of for you in practice We support you throughout all implementation phases – from market analysis to performance review: • Obtaining and comparing offers: We assist you in collecting and evaluating transparent, market-based quotations • Selection of suitable providers: Whether technology, planning, or implementation, we support you in choosing reliable partners • Funding advisory and application support: We identify suitable funding programs and guide you through the entire application process • Review and design of contracting models: We present alternative financing and operating models • Performance review and quality assurance: We ensure that the implemented measures achieve the intended results Make use of our expertise to successfully implement your energy efficiency projects.
Transformation plan
The transition to greenhouse gas neutrality is both a major challenge and a significant opportunity for companies. Through Module 5 of the Energy Efficiency Act (EEW), the government specifically supports the development of long-term decarbonization strategies as well as the preparation and certification of CO₂e footprints. Why is the Transformation Plan so essential? A well-founded transformation plan is much more than a document. It serves as your strategic roadmap towards climate neutrality. Key benefits at a glance: • Long-term planning certainty for investments in climate-friendly technologies • Transparency regarding emission sources and reduction potentials • Competitive advantages through sustainable positioning • Access to public funding for concrete measures • Fulfilment of legal requirements and funding eligibility criteria Your building blocks for decarbonization: What is funded? Within the framework of Module 5 of the Energy Efficiency Act, the following services are eligible for funding: • Development of a long-term decarbonization concept (minimum target: 40% greenhouse gas reduction within a maximum of 10 years and greenhouse gas neutrality by 2045) • Preparation and certification of a CO₂e footprint • Energy consulting services • Costs for necessary measurements, data collection, and data procurement Benefit from our expertise and secure government support for your sustainability transformation plan. Our experienced experts support you from the initial concept through implementation and assist you throughout the funding application process.
Environmental management systems
By implementing an environmental management system in accordance with ISO 14001 or EMAS, companies establish the foundation for sustainable business practices, resource conservation, and legal compliance. The structured approach helps to identify environmental impacts, optimize processes, and continuously improve environmental performance. ISO 14001 ISO 14001 is internationally recognized and defines requirements for an effective environmental management system. It supports organizations in systematically and sustainably improving their environmental performance: • Identification and evaluation of environmental aspects • Definition of environmental objectives and key performance indicators • Development of emergency preparedness and hazard prevention concepts • Regular internal audits to review system effectiveness • Continuous improvement of environmental performance EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) EMAS goes beyond ISO 14001 and represents the most demanding environmental management system in Europe. It is voluntary, open to all organizations, and offers additional benefits: • Publication of a validated environmental statement • Recognition as equivalent to ISO 50001 in energy management • Access to tax refunds and exemptions Our Services – Your Path to Successful Environmental Management We provide individual, hands-on support from initial analysis through to validation: • Consulting on the implementation and operation of ISO 14001 and EMAS • Conducting gap analyses to define objectives • Evaluation of environmental aspects and development of appropriate indicators • Preparation of emergency concepts and environmental statements • Conducting internal audits and environmental assessments • Support with funding applications and communication
Energy management systems
Systematic energy management creates the foundation for greater energy efficiency, lower costs, and sustainable business practices. Whether in accordance with ISO 50001 or based on the practical guidance of ISO 50005, companies of all sizes benefit from a structured approach to optimizing their energy use. At the same time, they make an active contribution to climate protection while strengthening their competitiveness. Professional energy management offers numerous benefits—for the environment, businesses, and society: Reduction of energy consumption and CO₂e emissions Cost savings through improved energy efficiency Enhanced competitiveness and sustainability Access to funding programs and tax incentives Compliance with legal requirements and climate targets Our Services – Your Path to Successful Energy Management We support you individually and pragmatically from initial analysis through to implementation: Support with the implementation and operation of ISO 50001 or ISO 50005 Conducting gap analyses and internal audits Development of key performance indicators (KPIs) and regression models Strategic coaching and training Support with funding applications and certifications Pragmatic implementation of documentation requirements
Product Carbon Footprint
Where do the greatest emissions occur in your products, and which efficiency measures deliver the greatest climate impact? A precise CO₂e assessment at the product level—known as the Product Carbon Footprint (PCF)—provides the crucial data basis for making informed decisions, prioritizing decarbonization potential, and implementing your climate strategy in a targeted and cost-effective manner. Why are CO₂e footprints indispensable today? Requirements placed on companies by customers, legislators, and the market are steadily increasing. Transparent CO₂e accounting is no longer a “nice-to-have,” but a strategic tool. It shows where emissions arise, how they can be reduced, and which measures are economically viable. The PCF quantifies all CO₂e emissions of a product throughout its entire life cycle—from raw material extraction and production to use, end-of-life treatment, transport, and packaging. It is based on internationally recognized standards such as the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG) and ISO 14067. The result: a consistent, comparable, and verifiable CO₂e footprint at product level. Our services We support you holistically in the development and use of your Product Carbon Footprint, including: Training to understand PCF requirements Joint identification of focus areas and definition of targets Support with data collection and assessment, including PCF calculation Identification of improvement and optimization potential
Corporate Carbon Footprint (CCF)
Legal requirements, ESG reporting obligations, and increasing expectations from customers and investors are making transparent CO₂e accounting a necessity. The Corporate Carbon Footprint (CCF) reveals where emissions arise within the company, how they can be reduced, and which measures are economically viable. It is a key management tool for your climate strategy. The CCF captures all direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions of a company—from Scope 1 (e.g. company-owned vehicles) and Scope 2 (e.g. electricity consumption) to Scope 3 (e.g. supply chain, business travel, purchased services). It is based on internationally recognized standards such as the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG) and ISO 14064. The result is a consistent, comparable, and auditable CO₂e footprint that serves as a foundation for climate reporting, sustainability ratings, and decarbonization strategies. We support you holistically in developing and using your Corporate Carbon Footprint. Our services include: Training on CCF standards and regulatory requirements Joint definition of objectives and prioritization of fields of action Data collection and carbon accounting in accordance with the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064 Identification of reduction potentials and efficiency measures Integration into ESG reporting and sustainability reports Training on CCF standards and regulatory requirements Systematic documentation and communication of your CO₂e key figures Support in meeting CSRD requirements
Energy Procurement Strategy
Would you like to reduce your energy costs while ensuring security of supply and sustainability at the same time? Whether fixed-price agreements, flexible procurement models, green electricity, or public tenders – the requirements are diverse. What truly matters is leveraging the opportunities of the energy market in a strategic way. A well-designed energy procurement strategy reduces costs and creates planning certainty. Today, companies face the challenge of sourcing energy efficiently, predictably, and sustainably. A strategically developed energy procurement concept delivers: Cost control through market transparency Risk mitigation through flexible contract models Compliance with regulatory requirements and ESG criteria Competitive advantages through sustainable energy sources With the right strategy, energy procurement becomes a genuine success factor. We provide end-to-end support in the design and implementation of your energy procurement strategy. Our services include: Individual consulting on procurement models and market mechanisms Development of tailor-made energy procurement concepts Execution of professional tender procedures Preparation of transparent decision-making documents for management Support with supplier switching and contract management Integration of sustainability aspects and green energy solutions Together, we develop your optimal procurement strategy and implement it efficiently. Schedule your non-binding initial consultation now and take the first step toward an economically efficient and sustainable energy future.
Energy Cost Scan
As part of the energy cost scan, your cost and consumption data are analyzed, selected energy bills are reviewed on a sample basis, and potential relief measures as well as grid fee reductions are identified. Existing energy supply contracts and regulatory obligations are assessed. The outcome is a clear and easy‑to‑understand final report with concise recommendations on savings potential and risks. Prerequisites: • Annual energy costs exceeding €100,000 • Timely provision of all relevant data and information upon request • Fixed fee of €2,500 for fewer than 5 energy meters • Fixed fee of €4,000 for 5–20 energy meters • For more than 20 energy meters, an individual quotation is required Process: • Submission of the quotation and written contract conclusion • Kick-off meeting • Request for the required documentation • Review of potential energy-saving measures and reporting obligations • Preparation of the final report • Closing meeting Product Terms and Conditions: • The BFE Energy Cost Scan is based on a predefined consulting budget • Additional efforts, e.g. due to exceptionally complex setups or insufficient data provision, are not included • The Energy Cost Scan is limited to an analysis of the current (as-is) situation. Applications or data reporting can be commissioned separately at any time • The timeframe for completing the Energy Cost Scan is generally around 3 months
Green Energy Workshop
Renewable energy sources — solar and wind power, hydropower, geothermal energy, and biomass— are at the top of the climate debate. But how can these energy sources be used effectively and economically for my company? Should energy be self-generated, for example through photovoltaic systems, or sourced from new or existing wind power plants operated by external providers? Or is a combination of solutions the right approach? The use of renewable energy offers enormous potential to help achieve climate protection targets and to improve the CO₂e footprint of your company and/or your products. For certain privileges and subsidy schemes, the purchase of electricity from renewable sources is already a prerequisite. Whether greening your electricity supply through guarantees of origin, operating on-site generation facilities, or entering into power purchase agreements (PPAs)—there are various ways to cover your electricity demand with renewable energy. These options differ in terms of models and quality and are not always easy to distinguish. In an orientation workshop, we help you bring clarity to this complex topic. Our services include: Orientation Workshop - Review and, if necessary, replacement of existing energy sources, including profitability analyses - Advisory services on self-generation of energy, including power purchase agreements (PPAs) - Analysis of interactions and regulatory effects (e.g. privileges and exemptions) - Development of your individual “Green Energy Roadmap” to achieve your sustainability goals - Support with applications and reporting deadlines for your on-site generation facilities