BAFA funding for compressors – explained clearly and up to date
New applications from 15 September 2025 via Förderzentrale Deutschland (FZD)
Since 15.09.2025, BAFA funding applications have been submitted exclusively via the central online portal Förderzentrale Deutschland (FZD).
The new platform consolidates the entire funding process and significantly simplifies it for companies.
👉 Go directly to the application portal:
https://www.foerderportal.bund.de/fzd
Your benefits from the new process:
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Modern, clearly structured online portal
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Ability to save applications and continue processing them later
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Transparent view of the current processing status
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Unified platform for current and future federal funding programs
This makes applying for BAFA subsidies for compressors faster, more structured, and easier to track.
How BAFA funding works via Förderzentrale Deutschland (FZD)
Step-by-step process from application to payment
1. Applying via the FZD portal
Submit the funding application, including all required documents, via the online portal of Förderzentrale Deutschland (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 BAFA
The Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) reviews the application.
If necessary, further questions or additional documents may be requested.
4. Digital grant approval notice in the FZD portal
After a positive review, the grant approval notice is made available electronically in the FZD portal.
➡️ Only now is it possible to place an order without financial risk.
5. Ordering the eligible system
The compressor or measure must be ordered after receipt of the grant approval notice.
Implementation & payment of the subsidy
6. Installation and commissioning of the system
The funded system must be installed and ready for operation within 24 months of receipt of the grant approval notice.
7. Submission of the proof of use
All supporting documents (e.g. invoice, commissioning confirmation) must be submitted via the FZD portal no later than 3 months after the end of the approval period.
8. Review of the documents by BAFA
BAFA reviews the submitted proof of use for completeness and compliance with the funding requirements.
9. Payment of the subsidy
After successful review, the subsidy is paid directly by BAFA.
Notes on the approval period
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The approval period begins on the date of the funding approval notice
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It covers the period from ordering to commissioning the installation (max. 24 months)
Important: Apply before ordering
For eligible compressed-air systems – e.g. rotary screw compressors – applications via the FZD portal are mandatory.
The compressor may be ordered only after receipt of the positive funding approval notice.
⏱ Processing usually takes approx. 2–6 weeks.
We will be happy to support you and, upon request, put you in touch with a specialized funding advisory service.
Please note: There is no legal entitlement to funding.
BAFA grant of up to 25% – is replacing your system worthwhile?
If you have operated an existing compressed-air system for at least five years and are planning to switch to a modern, energy-efficient system, you may benefit from attractive government grants.
As part of the program
“Energy and Resource Efficiency in Business (EEW)”
the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA) funds investments in efficient compressed-air technology.
Typical eligible measures include:
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Replacement of compressed-air systems and rotary screw compressors
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Higher-level compressor control systems
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Variable-speed compressors
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Noise and efficiency measures
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Heat recovery systems
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Ultrasonic leak detection devices (in combination with additional measures)
Depending on the company size, grants of up to 25% are possible.
Funding modules for compressed-air technology
Module 1 – Cross-cutting technologies
This module is aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises and funds replacement investments only.
Funding rates:
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Micro and small companies: up to 25 %
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Medium-sized companies: up to 20 %
Eligible measures include:
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Electric motors and drives
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Compressed-air systems, including higher-level control systems
📄 Information on Module 1 – Cross-cutting technologies:
Module 1: Cross-cutting technologies
Module 4 – Energy-related optimization of systems and processes
This module enables funding for extensive efficiency measures.
Funding rates:
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Small companies: up to 15 %
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Medium-sized companies: up to 10 %
Framework conditions:
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Minimum investment: €10,000 net
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Maximum 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 replacing existing systems
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Application before ordering is mandatory
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Applications must be submitted exclusively via the FZD portal
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Processing time: approx. 2–6 weeks
👉 Go to the application portal:
https://www.foerderportal.bund.de/fzd
💡 Tip: We support you in selecting an eligible compressor and, upon request, put you in touch with a funding consultancy.
Technical requirements for compressors eligible for funding
Only high-efficiency compressed air systems that meet, among others, the following criteria are eligible for funding:
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Pressure range between 4 and 15 bar gauge pressure
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Proof of a specific power value in accordance with the BAFA information sheet
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Measurement in accordance with ISO 1217 Annex C or E
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Higher-level 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 additional measures
The required documentation is provided through manufacturer documents and calculations.
Funding limits & key figures
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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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Applications must be submitted exclusively online via the FZD portal
❓ FAQ – Frequently asked questions about BAFA funding for compressors
Does the BAFA application have to be submitted before placing the order?
Yes. The order may only be placed after the positive grant notification has been received.
How long does it take to process the application?
In practice, processing usually takes between 2 and 6 weeks.
Are new systems without an existing system eligible for funding?
No. Funding is available exclusively for replacement investments in existing systems.
Who is eligible to apply?
Small and medium-sized enterprises as defined by the EU, with a registered business location in Germany.
Which costs are eligible for funding?
In addition to investment costs, ancillary costs such as assembly or installation may also be taken into account up to 30%.
Do you support applicants with submitting their application?
Yes. We advise on eligibility for funding and, upon request, put you in touch with a funding consultancy.
