The initiative “Energieeffizienz im Museum” responds to ongoing challenges posed by rising energy prices and limited public budgets. The programme aims to support museums in identifying practical opportunities to improve the efficiency of their technical systems, operational processes and use of resources.
Open call for museums in Germany
Through an open call, museums based in Germany of all disciplines, sizes and organisational structures are invited to apply. Six museums will be selected to participate in the programme.
Working alongside consultants and experts, participating museums will analyse areas such as energy consumption, operational procedures, use of space, and conservation and curatorial requirements. Based on these assessments, tailored measures will be developed and tested to improve energy efficiency and support more sustainable museum operations.
A key aspect of the programme is its cross-departmental approach. Museum management, administration, technical services, facilities management, conservation and curatorial staff will work together to identify solutions that balance sustainability, cost efficiency and collection care.
- Learn more about the programme (in German)
- Deadline to apply: 11 October 2026
- Access the application form here
A guide for the wider museum sector
The experiences and findings generated through the programme will be compiled into a freely accessible guide. The publication is intended to help other museums assess their own operations, identify potential savings and implement long-term measures to improve energy efficiency.
Information session
The German Museums Association will also host an online information session on 2 October 2026 (11:00–12:00 CET), providing further details about the programme and the application process.
- Access the link to join here
