The CDU-affiliated organization “Klimaunion” has criticized the new heating law passed by the coalition government, characterizing it as a constitutional setback. This disapproval is based on a commissioned expert report, which was reported by the FAZ newspaper. The report argues that the legislation permits the unlimited use of fossil-fuel heating systems beyond the year 2045, despite Germany’s stated goal of achieving climate neutrality by that time.
Furthermore, the report points out that the proposed “Bio-Treppe” which involves the gradual mixing of climate-friendly gases such as hydrogen or biogas, does not address the issue of unlimited fossil fuel usage. Moreover, the legislation lacks a mandatory plan or quota for renewable “green” gases, leading the association to conclude that the law contravenes the climate protection ruling issued by the Federal Constitutional Court.
To ensure the law is constitutionally compliant, the expert report recommends legislating a definite operational end date for all fossil-fueled heaters set for December 31, 2044. This law was presented to and approved by the cabinet last week by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) and Building Minister Verena Hubertz (SPD).
