In Germany, sustainable heating is becoming increasingly important as climate protection requirements grow and regulations like the Building Energy Act (GEG) pave the way toward a climate-friendly future. Efficient energy use plays a central role here, especially through the utilization of renewable energies and the enhanced energy efficiency of modern heating systems. For property owners and builders, understanding the updates to the GEG is crucial for developing a sustainable and economical heating strategy. In this blog post, we explain the key changes in the GEG, how they impact heating systems, and what you can do to ensure long-term, future-proof heating.
What is the Building Energy Act (GEG)?
The Building Energy Act, or GEG, has unified previous regulations from the Energy Savings Ordinance (EnEV), the Renewable Energies Heat Act (EEWärmeG), and the Energy Savings Act (EnEG) into a single law as of November 2020. It sets energy standards for both new buildings and existing structures with the goal of reducing energy consumption in Germany through climate-friendly and resource-saving technologies. Heating technology is particularly impacted by the new regulations, as heating systems in Germany account for around 30% of energy consumption.
Overview of Key Changes
The GEG brings several changes, especially regarding existing heating systems and the use of renewable energy. Here are the main points:
Mandatory Replacement of Old Heating Systems
Since the GEG came into effect, certain older oil heating systems that are 30 years or older can no longer be operated. This restriction primarily affects low-temperature and standard boilers installed before 1991. For property owners, this means they must transition to alternative, more climate-friendly heating systems. The focus is on heating technologies such as heat pumps, gas condensing boilers, and pellet heating systems.
Promotion of Renewable Energy in Heating
The GEG mandates that in new buildings, at least part of the heating energy must come from renewable sources. There are various options for this: solar thermal systems, biomass, heat pumps, or district heating. Depending on the federal state, geothermal or wind power systems may also be considered. Combining different technologies is also possible and is frequently incentivized.
Primary Energy Demand and Efficiency Classes
Primary energy demand is a core focus of the GEG. The goal is to reduce energy consumption by achieving high-efficiency ratings. Legislators require that new buildings do not exceed a specified primary energy demand, achieved through modern heating systems and well-insulated building envelopes. The support aims to encourage renovations in existing buildings to meet these standards, allowing for significant energy savings.
Heat Pumps and Hybrid Heating Systems
Heat pumps are considered one of the most efficient solutions and are particularly promoted under the GEG. However, it’s not limited to using just a heat pump alone—hybrid solutions, such as combining a gas boiler with a heat pump, are also popular for cost savings and providing flexible heating options.
Building Efficiency Classes for Property Sales
Another aspect of the GEG is the introduction of efficiency classes for properties. When selling or renting a property, the energy certificate must now indicate the building's efficiency class. This increases transparency for buyers and tenants while encouraging owners to consider the energy quality of their property.
Future-Proof Heating Systems: What Are the Options?
Within the scope of the GEG, various heating technologies are highlighted as climate-friendly and future-proof. Efficient use of renewable energy and its benefits are central. Here are the main heating systems in modern heating technology:
Heat Pumps: Heat pumps harness heat from the environment (air, water, or earth) and are considered especially efficient and eco-friendly. They only require electricity for operation, resulting in low CO₂ emissions. They are also versatile, suitable for both space heating and hot water production.
Pellet Heating Systems: Pellet heating systems are a good alternative to fossil fuels, utilizing wood pellets made from wood waste. These systems are CO₂-neutral, as the wood absorbs CO₂ during its growth. Combined with a pellet boiler, high-efficiency levels can be achieved.
Solar Thermal Systems: Solar thermal systems use solar energy to generate heat for hot water and heating. These systems are easily combined with other heating systems, such as gas or pellet heating, to ensure stable heat supply. They are especially popular for new buildings.
Hybrid Heating Systems: Hybrid systems combine two or more heat sources, often fossil and renewable, to provide an efficient and flexible heating solution. A typical example is a combination of a gas boiler and a heat pump. Hybrid systems are particularly beneficial if an existing gas heating system is being upgraded without fully replacing it.
Utilizing Funding Options for Heating: BAFA and KfW
To support the transition to climate-friendly heating systems, the government offers various funding options. Key programs include those from the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA) and the German Development Bank (KfW).
BAFA Grants: These grants are specifically designed for installing heating systems that use renewable energy sources. Depending on the type of heating system, property owners can receive grants covering up to 35% of investment costs.
KfW Loans and Repayment Grants: KfW offers low-interest loans as well as repayment grants for energy-efficient renovations and new builds. This funding aims to improve the energy efficiency of buildings and can be particularly valuable for extensive renovation projects.
It’s advisable to seek an energy consultation before beginning any modernization measures to identify and maximize the appropriate funding. These initiatives support the energy transition and contribute to achieving the German government’s climate goals.
Conclusion: Future-Proof and Eco-Friendly Heating
The Building Energy Act (GEG) provides clear guidelines for the future of heating in Germany. For property owners, understanding the new requirements and exploring various heating technologies early on is essential. Heat pumps, pellet heating, and solar thermal systems are just some of the many options available, especially effective when installed in a well-insulated home.
Funding from BAFA and KfW significantly eases the investment in future-proof heating solutions, making the switch to climate-friendly heating financially attractive. This not only helps reduce costs but also supports climate protection efforts.
The path to an environmentally friendly, future-proof heating strategy is clear. Take this opportunity to learn more about the available options and funding programs. Doing so will ensure you not only meet regulatory requirements but also benefit long-term from an efficient and eco-friendly heating solution with optimal heat distribution.
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