Energieffektivisering i små och medelstora företag : Hinder och förutsättningar för ökat genomförande

This bachelor's thesis investigates the implementation of energy efficiency measures among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Halland, Sweden, that have received support through Region Halland’s financial support Energismart and Energy Audit Grants. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the extent to which recommended measures have been carried out and to identify key drivers, barriers, and improvement opportunities associated with the support schemes. The study is based on quantitative data from 224 Energismart reports and 9 energy audit reports, along with qualitative interviews conducted with a subset of participating companies (46 from Energismart and 5 from audit-supported firms). Implementation rate was calculated as the proportion of measures reported as completed, and interview responses were thematically analyzedto identify recurring factors influencing decision-making. The results show an average implementation rate of 42% for Energismart and 54% for the energy audit grants, which is in line with previous studies. Reported barriers included financial uncertainty, limited time and resources, lack of follow-up, and knowledge gaps. No clear relationship was found between implementation rate and company’s financial ratios, indicating that financial capacity alone does not explain implementation outcomes. Identified drivers included anticipated cost savings, increased awareness, external advice, and internal engagement. Companies also expressed the need for clearer follow-up, improved energy data visualization, and more opportunities for peer learning. The study concludes that regional support plays an important role in promoting energy efficiency among SMEs, but many proposed actions are still left unimplemented. Future efforts should prioritizelong-term follow-up, technical support, and accessible knowledge to help companies take further steps in their energy work