Turning Energy Efficiency into Measurable Impact
Eva Mai
Energy efficiency is one of the most effective levers for reducing emissions in event operations. In 2025, the MCH Group took a decisive step forward by deepening its partnership with the Basel-based energy provider IWB, translating strategic ambition into measurable results across major events.
The partnership combines IWB’s role as electricity supplier with a comprehensive energy consulting mandate, supporting MCH Group events throughout all operational phases, from set-up and live days to dismantling. The goal is clear: reduce energy consumption without compromising event quality, while creating scalable learnings for future events.
From Strategy to Results
The impact of this collaboration became evident already in its first full year of implementation. Across optimized events in 2025, total electricity savings reached 795,000 kWh, corresponding to a reduction of 34.6% compared to non-optimized reference events. These savings translate into significant financial benefits, demonstrating that energy efficiency delivers both environmental and economic value.
One of the most significant results was achieved at Art Basel in Basel 2025. Compared to the 2023 edition, electricity consumption was reduced by more than 31%, equivalent to 423,000 kWh, alongside a 70% reduction in district heating consumption (81,000 kWh). Together, these savings correspond to the annual energy consumption of around 120 Swiss single-family homes.
Positive results were also recorded at other events. At Fantasy Basel, electricity consumption was reduced by over 12% (22,300 kWh), despite higher outdoor temperatures and a larger event footprint. In percentage terms, the strongest reduction was achieved at HOLZ, where electricity consumption fell by 45.4%, equivalent to 133,900 kWh.
Targeted Measures with Systemic Effect
These reductions were achieved through a series of targeted operational measures developed and refined jointly by the Real Estate and Facility Management Team of MCH Group, IWB, and event teams. Key actions included:
reduced operation or complete shutdown of ventilation systems during night hours,
demand-based control of lighting during set-up and dismantling phases,
optimization of temperature settings and cooling systems,
avoidance of simultaneous heating and cooling,
and the iterative adjustment of system parameters during events based on real-time measurement data.
Importantly, these measures were not one-off interventions, but part of a learning-based optimization process designed to be replicated and continuously improved.
A Key Lever on the Path to 2030
The partnership with IWB directly supports the MCH Group’s ambition to halve energy-related CO₂ emissions by 2030 compared to 2023. By embedding energy efficiency into operational planning and facility management, the initiative strengthens resilience, reduces costs, and contributes to the climate goals of the Canton of Basel-Stadt.
Looking ahead, the partnership sets a new standard for MCH Group when it comes to energy efficiency at events. With IWB as a partner, MCH Group is building a scalable model for energy-efficient event operations, demonstrating how sustainability can be embedded into the core of live experiences, measurably and effectively.
