Why is it beneficial for SMEs to engage in energy transition? - SMEnergy Talks summary and key takeaways

In his opening presentation, Áron outlined why SMEs face disproportionate barriers when attempting to adopt renewable energy or improve efficiency: lack of information, market opacity, limited technical capacity, unstable regulation and difficulties accessing financing. He highlighted that SMEnergy aims to respond to these needs by providing a transparent, expert-based one-stop shop model and a digital platform featuring pre-screened suppliers, experts, good practices and an interactive self-assessment tool. The webinar also presented how Hungary is testing an advisory-based pilot model involving external energy consultants supporting SMEs with audits, data analysis, technology sizing and investment planning.   

The second presentation was delivered by Nelli Tóth, Managing Director of MN6 Energy Agency, who emphasised that energy management is not only a sustainability expectation but a direct business opportunity. She explained that effective energy management combines data collection, loss identification, behavioural and operational optimisation, and long-term decarbonisation planning. Nelli underlined that “energy efficiency and sustainability go hand in hand”, and warned against the widespread misconception that renewable energy is “free”. Instead, she highlighted that efficiency should always come before renewable investments, and that audits often reveal mis-sized systems, unnecessary losses and overlooked operational optimisation potential. 

Her presentation also mentioned quick wins (behavioural changes, monitoring-based optimisation, proper HVAC control), the value of digitalisation and metering, and the importance of complying with energy-related regulations such as audit obligations and energy management requirements. She shared examples from industrial clients, demonstrating how structured energy management improves competitiveness, reduces risks, and strengthens ESG performance. 

The other expert speaker, Zoltán Baranyák from Wattmanager, provided a highly practical overview of proven energy-saving methods for SMEs. He highlighted everyday operational mistakes - such as inefficient ventilation, improper building control, unoptimised compressed air systems or oversized equipment - and showed how simple changes can significantly reduce consumption. He illustrated how compressed air heat recovery, proper insulation of steam and condensate systems, modernising old fans and pumps, or adjusting building use to photovoltaic production can generate immediate savings. One case study showed that identifying a malfunctioning flue-gas damper in a holding furnace reduced its energy use by up to 46%. 

The session concluded with an open Q&A session. The discussion reinforced a shared message: energy transition becomes cost-effective when SMEs first understand their data, address inefficiencies, then integrate renewable solutions into a well-planned strategy. 

The SMEnergy project is aligned with the Interreg Danube Region Programme 2021-2027 priority, “A greener, low-carbon Danube Region”, and will directly contribute to the programme Specific Objective 2.1, “Support greening the energy and transport sectors in the Danube Region by enhancing the integration of renewable energy sources”.