BAFA funding for compressors – currently & clearly explained
New application submission from September 15, 2025, through the Funding Center Germany (FZD)
Since September 15, 2025, the application for BAFA funding can only be made through the central online portal Funding Center Germany (FZD).
The new platform consolidates the entire funding process and significantly simplifies the process for companies.
👉 Directly to the application portal:
https://www.foerderportal.bund.de/fzd
Your advantages through the new procedure:
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Modern, clearly structured online portal
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Temporary storage of applications and later further processing
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Transparent insight into the current processing status
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Unified platform for current and future federal funding programs
The application for BAFA grants for compressors is thus faster, more structured, and more transparent.
Process of BAFA funding through the Funding Center Germany (FZD)
Step-by-step process from application submission to payment
1. Application submission in the FZD portal
Submission of the funding application including all required documents via the online portal of the Funding Center Germany (FZD).
2. Receipt and confirmation in the FZD system
After successful submission, you will receive an electronic confirmation of receipt via the portal.
3. Technical review by the BAFA
The Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) reviews the application.
If necessary, inquiries or additions may be requested.
4. Digital grant notification in the FZD portal
After positive verification, the grant notification will be provided electronically in the FZD portal.
➡️ Only now is an order possible without financial risk.
5. Order of the eligible system
The order for the compressor or the measure is placed after receipt of the grant notification.
Implementation & payment of the funding
6. Installation and commissioning of the system
The funded system must be installed and operational within 24 months after receipt of the grant notification.
7. Submission of proof of use
At the latest 3 months after the end of the approval period, all proofs (e.g., invoice, commissioning confirmation) must be submitted via the FZD portal.
8. Review of documents by the BAFA
The BAFA checks the submitted proof of use for completeness and compliance with funding requirements.
9. Payment of the grant amount
After successful verification, the grant will be paid out directly by the BAFA.
Notes on the approval period
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The approval period begins with the date of the funding notification
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It covers the period from the order to the operational installation (max. 24 months)
Important: Application before ordering
For eligible compressed air systems – e.g. screw compressors – application through the FZD portal is mandatory.
The order for the compressor may only be placed after receiving the positive funding notification.
⏱ The processing time is usually approximately 2–6 weeks.
We are happy to assist you and can, upon request, connect you with a specialized funding advisory service.
Please note: There is no legal entitlement to funding.
BAFA grant of up to 25% – is it worth replacing your system?
If you have been operating an existing compressed air system for at least five years and are planning to switch to a modern, energy-efficient system, you can benefit from attractive government grants.
As part of the program
“Energy and Resource Efficiency in the Economy (EEW)”
The Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) promotes investments in efficient compressed air technology.
Typically eligible measures include, among others:
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Replacement of compressed air systems and screw compressors
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Overarching compressor controls
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Variable speed compressors
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Sound and efficiency measures
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Systems for heat recovery
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Ultrasonic leak detection devices (in combination with other measures)
Depending on the size of the company, grants of up to 25% are possible.
Funding modules for compressed air technology
Module 1 – Cross-sectional technologies
This module is aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises and exclusively promotes replacement investments.
Funding rates:
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Micro & small enterprises: up to 25 %
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Medium-sized enterprises: up to 20 %
Eligible are, among others:
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Electric motors and drives
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Compressed air systems including overarching control
📄 Information on Module 1 – Cross-sectional technologies:
Module 1: Cross-sectional technologies
Module 4 – Energy-related optimization of systems and processes
This module enables the funding of extensive efficiency measures.
Funding rates:
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Small enterprises: up to 15 %
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Medium-sized enterprises: up to 10 %
Framework conditions:
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Minimum investment: €10,000 net
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Max. funding amount: €20 million per project
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Proof of at least 15% final energy savings
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Involvement of an energy consultant required
🧾 BAFA funding at a glance
BAFA funding for compressors
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Grant of up to 25 % possible
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Only for replacement of existing systems
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Application before order mandatory
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Application submission exclusively via the FZD portal
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Processing time: approx. 2–6 weeks
👉 To the application portal:
https://www.foerderportal.bund.de/fzd
💡 Tip: We assist you in selecting an eligible compressor and can connect you with the funding advisory service upon request.
Technical requirements for eligible compressors
Only highly efficient compressed air systems that meet the following criteria are eligible for funding:
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Pressure range between 4 and 15 bar overpressure
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Proof of a specific performance value according to BAFA guidelines
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Measurement according to ISO 1217 Annex C or E
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Central control for multiple compressors
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Heat recovery ≥ 70 % of electrical power consumption
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Leakage measuring devices only in combination with other measures
The required evidence is provided through manufacturer documents and calculations.
Funding limits & key data
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Minimum investment: €2,000 net
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Maximum grant: €200,000 per project
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Ancillary costs (installation, materials, etc.): up to 30 % eligible for funding
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Application submission exclusively online via the FZD portal
❓ FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about BAFA funding for compressors
Must the BAFA application be submitted before placing the order?
Yes. The order may only be placed after receiving the positive funding approval notice.
How long does the processing of the application take?
In practice, the processing time usually takes between 2 and 6 weeks.
Are new systems without an old system eligible for funding?
No. Only replacement investments of existing systems are funded.
Who is eligible to apply?
Small and medium-sized enterprises according to EU definition with a business location in Germany.
What costs are eligible for funding?
In addition to investment costs, ancillary costs such as assembly or installation can also be considered up to 30%.
Do you assist with the application process?
Yes. We provide advice on eligibility for funding and can connect you with a funding advisory service upon request.
