The Energy Saving Certificate System (CAE) is a mechanism in Spain that allows energy savings achieved through efficiency measures to be monetised.
In practice, businesses and individuals can generate certificates by reducing their consumption and sell them to obligated parties, creating a direct financial incentive to invest in efficiency, including in the automotive sector.
What is it?
The CAE is a system regulated by the Spanish Government that recognises, measures and certifies the energy savings resulting from specific energy efficiency measures.
Each certificate is equivalent to a specific amount of energy saved.
This system has emerged as an alternative or complement to the energy efficiency obligations imposed on energy suppliers, allowing them to meet their targets by purchasing certified savings rather than making direct financial contributions.
In essence, the CAE converts energy savings into a transferable economic asset.
How does it work?
The operation of the system is based on several key players and steps:
- Generation of savings: a company or individual carries out a measure that reduces energy consumption (for example, renewing a fleet or upgrading facilities).
- Verification: these savings must be measured and validated in accordance with official methodologies.
- Issuance of the CAE: once verified, certificates equivalent to the savings achieved are issued.
- Trading: the certificates can be sold to so-called “obligated parties”, who need to meet energy-saving targets.
- Settlement: the buyer uses these CAEs to demonstrate compliance with their regulatory obligations.
This model introduces a market where energy savings have direct economic value.
How does this apply to the automotive sector?
The automotive sector has significant scope to benefit from the CAE system, particularly in activities related tofleets, dealerships and efficient mobility.
Ways to save if you have a dealership
Dealerships can generate certifiable energy savings by:
- Replacing conventional lighting with LED technology.
- Installing more efficient air conditioning systems.
- Introducing energy self-consumption (such assolar panels).
- Improving the thermal insulation of the premises.
- Digitising processes to reduce energy consumption.
These measures not only reduce operating costs but can alsogenerate additional revenue through the sale of CAE.
Ways to save if you run a transport company
For transport or fleet management companies, the main approaches are:
- Fleet renewal towards more efficient or electric vehicles.
- Implementation of route optimisation software.
- Training in efficient driving for drivers.
- Use of telematics systems to reduce consumption and emissions.
- Preventive maintenance to improve energy efficiency.
These measures have a direct impact on fuel consumption, making them clear candidates for generating certificates.
How much can be saved?
The savings depend on the type of measure, the investment made and the initial energy consumption.
Generally speaking, the financial benefit comes from two sources:
- Direct reduction in energy costs.
- Additional income from the sale of certificates.
In some cases, the monetisation of ESCOs can cover a significant portion of the initial investment, improving the return and shortening payback periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
We answer the most common questions about the Energy Saving Certificate Scheme.
Who can benefit from the ESCO scheme?
Any business or individual undertaking measures that generate verifiable energy savings.
Is participation in the ESCO scheme mandatory?
No, it is voluntary for those generating savings, but mandatory for certain entities to meet efficiency targets.
What types of measures are eligible?
Those that reduce energy consumption in a measurable way, such as improvements to facilities, processes or equipment.
Can ESCs be applied to the replacement of vehicles in a fleet?
Yes, provided that a real reduction in energy consumption compared to the previous situation can be demonstrated.
How long does the certification process take?
It depends on the complexity of the measure and the verification process, but can range from weeks to several months.
Can CAEs be combined with other grants or subsidies?
In many cases, yes, although compatibility must be checked against the applicable regulations.
What units are used in CAEs?
Certificates are usually expressed in terms of energy saved, such as kWh.
Does the scheme apply only to large companies?
No, it is also open to SMEs and individuals undertaking energy efficiency measures.
