Federal Environment Minister Carsten Schneider (SPD) called for swift progress on revising the Building Energy Act, frequently referred to as the “Heating Act”. “The key points of the amendment must come through very quickly” Schneider told the “Neue Berliner Redaktionsgesellschaft” (Saturday editions).
He stressed that the heating sector and the many tradespeople need clear guidance. “Too many people are now reluctant to replace their heating systems-and everyone suffers as a result”. Schneider expressed confidence that the coalition will reach a solid compromise.
In the coalition agreement, the federal government announced its intention to repeal the existing Heating Act. The rules for installing new heating systems will be reworked, and the legislation will receive a new name. The coalition aimed to agree on core provisions by the end of January, but none have been released yet.
Time is of the essence. By March 25 the government must submit its climate‑protection programme. Under the Federal Climate Protection Act, the programme must outline how Germany will meet all interim climate targets through 2040. Removing the Building Energy Act’s requirement that new heating systems use at least 65 % renewable energy would close the CO₂‑reduction gap unless an adequate replacement is introduced.
