A senior figure within the Social Democratic Party (SPD) has voiced support for a more equitable distribution of financial assistance for heating system replacements. Matthias Miersch, parliamentary group leader for the SPD, expressed this view in interviews with Funke-Mediengruppe newspapers.
Miersch stated his belief that individuals with higher incomes shouldn’t receive the current level of subsidy for replacing their heating systems. He emphasized the need for a more targeted approach to ensure support reaches those most in need.
Despite advocating for a more progressive distribution of funds, Miersch reaffirmed the importance of the heating system replacement subsidy program. He cited anticipated significant increases in the carbon price in the coming years, projecting that this will render gas and oil heating systems increasingly expensive, potentially straining the finances of many households. He defended the initially generous level of assistance as necessary to prevent consumers from facing unaffordable energy costs and to facilitate the transition to new heating technologies.
While advocating for adjustments, Miersch ruled out a fundamental shift in policy within the framework of a planned reform of the Buildings Energy Act (GEG). He acknowledged the need to streamline bureaucratic processes and suggested that future assessments should consider the overall ecological balance of a building. However, he cautioned against suggesting a standstill on climate protection measures within the building sector, which he deemed reckless.
The coalition agreement between the conservative and SPD parties stipulates that the existing “heating law” should be abolished, with the GEG subsequently reformed to be more technology-neutral, flexible and accessible.
