Table 1
Classification of barriers according to four catégories.
| 1. Barriers related to energy culture Lack of a strong generalized energy culture among SMEs and the “actors of the context”, for example: ● Lack of a widespread awareness of the relevance of EE, including of EAs ● Specialized/engineering culture among Auditors and Consultants that create difficulties in communication ● Energy issues are not a priority among many actors, including those of the context ● Scarce consonance among the “actors of the context”. |
4. Barriers related to the strength of the actors SMEs and “actors of the context” are, generally not well equipped for the effective practice of EAs and EEMs. SMEs, in general, have little or no expertise concerning EE and EAs issues or people dedicated to them; especially in micro and small firms, the entrepreneurs have to cover several roles, no specific attention is put on these issues and oftentimes the time to devote is very limited. As for the “actors of the context”, it can be said that they: ● Are not able to interact properly all the various types of SMEs; ● Oftentimes are weak from several points of view relevant for dealing with SME because of inadequate knowledge of the funding systems for the promotion of EAs and EEMs, scarcity of human resources to dedicate to the promotion and implementation of EEMs and EAs ● Have difficulties in adopting correct communication approaches. |
| 2. Barriers related to orientation to change Scarce orientation to change among the actors, for example: ● Reluctance of SMEs to undertake EEMs and EA because of the possible economic and operational burden ● Reluctance of Auditors to support SMEs ● Low level of mutual trust among different “actors of the context” ● Just a minority of actors has taken on a proactive orientation towards EEMs and EAs. |
3. Barriers related to action Type of barriers to action are: ● SMEs’ resources to dedicate to EEM and EAs are, normally quite limited ● Regulations aimed at favouring the practice of EAs and EEMs, in general, is very complex ● Lack of clear information concerning the procedures for practising EAs and EEMs ● The practice of EA is different for different types of firms. The need for protocols that fit the specificities of SMEs is not addressed ● Difficulties in communicating among the diverse actors involved in the promotion and practice of EAs and EEMs ● Lack of coordination among the actors in the promotion, implementation and evaluation of policies. |
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