April 21, 2023, 3:10 am | Read time: 2 minutes
The federal government aims to significantly advance the “heat transition” as a key contribution to greater climate protection. The switch in heating systems is also intended to save citizens money in the long run.
The federal cabinet has approved the controversial plans for heating system replacement. Starting in 2024, every newly installed heating system should ideally be operated with 65 percent renewable energy. This marks the beginning of the phase-out of gas and oil heating systems. “Without a rapid shift in building heating, Germany can neither achieve its climate goals nor quickly reduce its dependence on fossil fuels,” the draft law states. What does this mean for property owners?
Is there a mandatory exchange?
There is no immediate mandatory exchange for heating systems in existing buildings. If a device breaks down and cannot be repaired, there are transition periods. By 2045 at the latest, all heating systems should be operated only with renewable energy instead of fossil fuels.
Building Minister Klara Geywitz (SPD) referred to the “entry” into the exit from gas and oil heating systems in Berlin. She assured that the law would not force people to sell their homes because they could not meet the requirements. There are generous transition periods and exceptions.
Economy and Climate Protection Minister Robert Habeck (Greens) spoke of a “reversal of momentum.” “We need to take action.” The heating sector accounts for 30 percent of energy consumption, with 80 percent coming from fossil fuels. Germany is starting the shift relatively late; other countries, such as those in Scandinavia, are much further along.
Heating system replacement approved – subsidies planned
Habeck said regarding a planned new subsidy system with “climate bonuses,” there was no agreement in the coalition on an income test for subsidies. “No distinction is made between average earners and villa owners.”
More on this: Significantly more subsidies for heat pumps approved
For people receiving social transfers, the requirement that from 2024 every newly installed heating system must be operated with 65 percent renewable energy should be waived. They should also have increased access to state subsidies if they want to replace their heating system.
The financing of the new subsidy program through the federal Climate and Transformation Fund is secured. The existing subsidy volume will be increased. The fund, a special federal asset, currently allocates more than 9 billion euros per year for measures to improve energy efficiency in buildings.
with material from dpa