A leading figure within the Social Democratic Party (SPD) has advocated for a more equitable distribution of subsidies for heating system replacements. Matthias Miersch, parliamentary group leader for the SPD, expressed his support for adjusting the current system, stating that individuals with higher incomes should receive less generous support for replacing their heating equipment.
Miersch emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust subsidy program, citing anticipated increases in the carbon price in coming years. He explained that these rising costs will likely make gas and oil heating systems prohibitively expensive for many households, potentially creating a significant financial burden. He defended the initial generous subsidy levels as vital to preventing consumers from being trapped in unaffordable costs and facilitating the transition to new heating technologies.
However, Miersch also indicated a reluctance to fundamentally alter the direction of the Building Energy Act (GEG) as part of a reform process. While acknowledging the need to streamline bureaucratic processes and potentially broaden the ecological assessment of buildings, he cautioned against suggesting a standstill in climate protection efforts within the building sector. He deemed that a complete cessation of action would be irresponsible.
The current coalition agreement between the conservative and SPD parties stipulates the eventual abolishment of the existing “heating law” alongside a commitment to revise the GEG to make it more technologically open, flexible and simplified.
