A proposal from the General Secretary of the Christian Social Union (CSU), Martin Huber, to halt funding for heat pumps in order to address budgetary gaps, is generating friction within the governing coalition.
Jakob Blankenburg, climate policy spokesperson for the Social Democratic Party (SPD), described the suggestion as “absurd” stating to the “Tagesspiegel” that withdrawing support would not only jeopardize the acceleration of the energy transition and climate goals, but also erode trust among citizens, businesses and the trades sector.
Huber’s proposal emerged in response to considerations from Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) to increase taxation on high-income earners. However, the suggestion is also being met with resistance from industry representatives. A spokesperson for Berlin-based heat pump manufacturer Enpal emphasized that “industry and trades have geared up for the modernization of heating systems and hundreds of thousands of households have invested in these technologies. What they now need from policymakers is reliability and predictability.
The Green Party has also voiced strong criticism of Huber’s stance. Andreas Audretsch, Deputy Parliamentary Group Leader for the Greens, stated to the “Tagesspiegel” that the CSU aims to eliminate funding for new heating systems and home renovations, representing “a frontal attack on families who cannot afford a new heating system without support”.
