The topic of the first online Dutch-German study visit on 9 Dec focused on “Generally speaking: How to help SMEs in achieving energy-efficiency”. We exchanged ideas and had a great networking. We talked about the main barriers and challenges but also drivers for SMEs to implement energy efficiency measures. Four Dutch and German Stakeholders offered insights into their work and projects:
- Rein Bouwer, Province of Drenthe, NL. The Province does e.g. energy scans for SMEs, optimising 98 business parks (making them energy neutral), offering E-knowledge broker services (connecting SMEs to energy advisors).
- Sebastian Hummel, Hessen Ministry of Economics & Energy Hessen, DE. The Ministry Implementing the current PIUS (Production-integrated environmental protection) Programme and working on the new stage of the programme.
- Floris van Dijk, Groningen Works Smart, NL, links inventors with implementors as well as links dreamers with realists.
- Felix Kaup, Hessen Trade an Invest (HTAI, a business promotion agency), DE. The agency organises trades, large and small scale events, commissions studies, runs communication campaigns for funding programmes and shares best practices.
We got involved via polls and quizzes, and learned what our partners and stakeholders have for breakfast :)
The next online Dutch-German study visit is planned for end of January 2021 and will focus on “All about the money: How to help SMEs financially in achieving energy efficiency”.
