The draft of the Building Modernization Act has been released. In addition to previously announced provisions, it includes, for the first time, specific targets for the subsequent stages of the “bio-staircase.” However, it does not specify an end date for the use of fossil fuels.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
The draft Building Modernization Act implements the EU Building Directive but leaves key requirements unaddressed. The required renovation pathway for residential buildings is missing; and for nonresidential buildings, Germany is making use of every possible exemption.
By Manuel Berkel
The CDU/CSU and SPD have announced an agreement on tenant protection in the German Building Energy Act: If landlords install gas heating systems, they will be required to cover half of the costs associated with the CO₂ price, grid fees and biogas. However, key details are still missing – such as what percentage of the energy will come from biogas.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
Because the government still cannot agree on a draft of the planned Building Modernization Act, it now plans to postpone obligations under the old Building Energy Act from July to November.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
Contrary to plans, the association consultation on the German Grid Package, EEG Amendment, and Power Plant Act has not yet begun – a situation that is also linked to a deadlock over the Nature Areas Act. No agreement has been reached on the Building Energy Act (GEG) either.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
A recent survey shows that the reform of the Building Energy Act (GEG) is creating more uncertainty than predictability.
By Lisa Kuner
In the amendment to the Building Enegy Act (GEG), the German Environment Minister is insisting on protection rules for tenants. These would also benefit the climate. Otherwise, he is evasive about the law, which, according to calculations by the Öko-Institut, will greatly widen the climate gap.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
Germany’s Environment Minister Carsten Schneider and the Federal Environment Agency remain silent on the government’s plans for the Building Modernization Act (GMG). Among other things, the way protections for renters have been designed is likely to be a key factor in the law’s impact on CO₂ emissions.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
Germany’s governing parties argue that the country’s climate targets remain achievable even if gas- and oil-fired heating systems continue to be installed. A proposed green gas quota is intended to offset the resulting emissions. However, many experts urge caution.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt and Nico Beckert
Legal experts express caution about the planned reform of the Building Energy Act. Their assessment could lend support to potential constitutional complaints against the federal government on climate grounds. European Union law may also pose obstacles to the government’s plans.
By Alexandra Endres and Manuel Berkel
