BAFA Funding for Compressors – Explained Clearly and Up-to-Date
New applications starting September 15, 2025, through the German Funding Center (FZD)
As of September 15, 2025, applications for BAFA funding must be submitted exclusively through the central online portal Förderzentrale Deutschland (FZD).
The new platform consolidates the entire grant application 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:
A modern, clearly structured online portal
Temporary storage of applications and subsequent processing
Transparent insight into the current processing status
Unified platform for current and future federal funding programs
This makes the process of applying for BAFA grants for compressors faster, more structured, and easier to follow.
Process for BAFA Funding Through the German Funding Agency (FZD)
Step-by-step process from application to payment
1. Submitting an application on the FZD portal
Submission of the grant 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 the BAFA
The Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) reviews the application.
If necessary, clarifications or additional information may be requested.
4. Digital Grant Award Notice on the FZD Portal
After a positive review, the grant notification will be made available electronically on the FZD portal.
➡️ Only now is it possible to place an order without financial risk.
5. Ordering the eligible equipment
The order for the compressor or the project will be placed upon receipt of the grant approval notice.
Implementation & Disbursement of the Grant
6. Installation and Commissioning of the System
The subsidized equipment must be installed and operational within 24 months of receiving the grant notification.
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 expiration of the authorization period.
8. Review of the documents by the BAFA
The BAFA reviews the submitted proofs of use for completeness and compliance with funding requirements.
9. Disbursement of the Grant Amount
After a successful review, the grant will be paid directly by the BAFA.
Notes on the Approval Period
The grant period begins on the date of the grant award notice.
It covers the period from the order to the installation ready for operation (max. 24 months)
Important: Submit a request before placing an order
For eligible compressed air systems—e.g., rotary screw compressors—submitting an application via the FZD portal is mandatory.
The compressor may not be ordered until the positive grant notification has been received.
⏱ Processing time is typically about 2–6 weeks.
We’d be happy to assist you with this 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 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 investment in efficient compressed air technology.
Typical eligible measures include, among others:
Replacement of Compressed Air Systems and Rotary Screw Compressors
High-Level Compressor Control Systems
Variable-speed compressors
Noise Control and Efficiency Measures
Heat Recovery Systems
Ultrasonic Leak Detectors (in combination with other measures)
Depending on the size of the company, grants of up to 25% may be available.
Conveyance Modules for Compressed Air Technology
Module 1 – Cross-Sectional Technologies
This module is aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises and exclusively promotes investment in exchange programs.
Supply rates:
Micro- and small businesses: up to 25 %
Medium-sized companies: up to 20 %
Eligible items include, among others:
Electric Motors and Drives
Compressed air systems, including higher-level control systems
📄 Information on Module 1 – Cross-Sectional Technologies:
Module 1: Cross-Sectional Technologies
Module 4 – Energy-Related Optimization of Plants and Processes
This module enables the implementation of comprehensive efficiency measures.
Supply rates:
Small businesses: up to 15 %
Medium-sized companies: up to 10 %
General Guidelines:
Minimum investment: €10,000 net
Maximum grant amount: €20 million per project
Proof of at least a 15% reduction in final energy consumption
Involvement of an energy consultant is required
🧾 BAFA Funding at a Glance
BAFA Funding for Compressors
Grant of up to 25 % possible
For replacement of existing equipment only
Request required before placing an order
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the FZD portal
Turnaround time: approx. 2–6 weeks
👉 Go to the application portal:
https://www.foerderportal.bund.de/fzd
💡 Tip: We can help you select a compressor eligible for subsidies and, upon request, put you in touch with a subsidy advisor.
Technical Requirements for Eligible Compressors
Only highly efficient compressed air systems that meet the following criteria, among others, are eligible for funding:
Pressure range between 4 and 15 bar gauge pressure
Proof of a specific performance value in accordance with the BAFA information sheet
Measurement in accordance with ISO 1217 Annex C or E
Master Control System for Multiple Compressors
Heat recovery ≥ 70 % the electrical power consumption
Leak detectors should only be used in combination with additional measures
The required evidence is provided through manufacturer documentation and calculations.
Funding Limits & Key Data
Minimum investment: €2,000 net
Maximum grant: €200,000 per project
Additional costs (installation, materials, etc.): up to 30 % eligible
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 an order?
Yes. The order may not be placed until the positive grant notification has been received.
How long does it take to process the application?
In practice, the processing time is usually between 2 and 6 weeks.
Are new systems eligible for funding if there is no existing system?
No. Funding is provided exclusively for replacement investments in existing equipment.
Who is eligible to apply?
Small and medium-sized enterprises as defined by the EU with a place of business in Germany.
Which costs are eligible for funding?
In addition to the investment costs, ancillary costs such as assembly or installation can also account for up to 30%.
Do you provide assistance with the application process?
Yes. We provide advice on eligibility for funding and, upon request, will put you in touch with a funding advisory service.
