Germany’s Future of Heating Law Faces Political Divide

The debate over the Heizungsgesetz intensifies as parties clash on its role in climate goals and energy affordability.

The Heizungsgesetz, officially the Gebäudeenergiegesetz (GEG), mandates new heating systems in Germany to use at least 65% renewable energy starting in 2024, with a goal of full fossil fuel phase-out by 2045.
The CDU and FDP have pledged to abolish the law if they form the next government, citing concerns over bureaucracy and advocating for market-based solutions like emissions trading.
Robert Habeck, Germany's Green Party Minister for Economic Affairs, warns that repealing the law would increase heating costs for citizens and hinder progress toward climate neutrality by 2045.
The German Städte- und Gemeindebund and heating industry experts emphasize the need for consistent regulatory frameworks to ensure planning security and successful energy transformation.
The law's associated funding program, offering up to 70% subsidies for heating system upgrades, remains popular, with growing applications for renewable technologies like heat pumps.