The programme applies to any large enterprise that sold more than 15,000,000 GJ of energy to final consumers in the previous year. These enterprises must offer energy efficiency information and advice via their customer service and websites. The content must include practical guidance tailored to different consumer groups, covering energy-saving opportunities, available support schemes, qualified energy experts, and access to residential energy efficiency measures under the national obligation scheme.
The programme was introduced as part of Hungary’s national measures to meet obligations under the EU Energy Efficiency Directive (EED). It is designed by the Hungarian Government and implemented by the obliged enterprises without government funding. Each enterprise finances its own activities under the programme.
The main target group is residential consumers, with additional relevance for small businesses and commercial users. The programme addresses the social need for improved awareness of energy-saving options, access to financial support, and connection with qualified professionals. It is intended to contribute to national energy savings by influencing consumer behaviour.
Case study profile
Introduction
The Large Enterprises’ Energy Efficiency Information Programme is a national initiative in Hungary requiring large energy enterprises to provide technical, administrative, and financial advice on energy efficiency to their customers. Introduced in June 2025 under the amended Act LVII of 2015, the programme aims to raise awareness and promote energy-conscious behaviour among final energy consumers, primarily households. While behavioural techniques are not centrally defined, the programme relies on clear, accessible information to support energy-saving decisions.
Behavioural insights
The programme focuses on encouraging broad energy-conscious behaviours among final consumers, particularly households. These include adopting efficient energy use habits, making energy-saving investments, and accessing available support schemes. While no specific behavioural frameworks or tools are mandated, enterprises are expected to design their own approaches, which may include nudges, tailored recommendations, or digital tools.
Behavioural factors considered include consumer awareness, motivation to reduce consumption, and practical barriers to investment. The programme assumes that clear, targeted information can help overcome knowledge gaps and support behaviour change. No behavioural insights have been reported yet, as implementation is still in its early stages.
Outcomes and impacts
As the programme has only recently begun, outcomes are not yet monitored or evaluated. The expected impact is increased consumer awareness and improved access to practical information, technical advice, and financial support for energy-saving measures. Over time, this is anticipated to lead to measurable reductions in energy consumption among households and small consumers. If successful, the model could be extended to other sectors or smaller energy suppliers, and inform similar obligations or voluntary programmes in related areas of sustainable consumption and climate action.