The early stages of forming process development offer a high degree of design freedom and therefore cost advantages in implementing energy efficiency measures. However, this potential often remains unused in industrial applications due to the lack of a cost-efficient and simple approach. This frontloading approach addresses the specifics of forming process development in existing production environments and bridges the gap between new development and retrofitting in SMEs. Four steps from analysis to modelling and measures to implementation provide an easy-to-follow guidance. Key challenges in data collection and uncertainty management are addressed. Using two forming processes as examples (bulk and sheet metal forming), a reduction in total energy consumption is achieved while the productivity remains unchanged. Therefore, the proposed frontloading approach opens up new opportunities for energy efficiency in forming technology.