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
A mandatory green gas quota for the heating sector is set to form part of the German government’s amendment to the Building Energy Act (GEG). According to the Association of the Electrical and Digital Industry (ZVEI), the measure would undermine core elements of the heating transition, weaken Germany’s industrial competitiveness and dilute climate action efforts.
By Sebastian Treptow and Mark Becker-von Bredow
After a long dispute, the CDU/CSU and SPD have largely agreed on the key points of the GEG reform. The CDU/CSU seems to have prevailed with its demand to abolish the 65% rule for renewable heating energy. Instead, a green gas quota is to be introduced.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt and Nico Beckert
A new report warns that proposed amendments could have far-reaching consequences, arguing that a weakening of climate protections would not be legally sound.
By Marc Winkelmann
Following a coalition committee meeting, a new timetable and new responsibilities for the previously announced amendment to the GEG have emerged. A repeal of the 65% rule for renewables without any substitution, which the CDU is pushing for, could fail due to EU requirements.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
The political battle over the Building Energy Act is heating up. A lobby association claims that the GEG reform has increased CO₂ emissions are based on a false interpretation of official figures, while the heating association presents a distorted picture of the industry’s situation. A fact check.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
The CDU/CSU wants to abolish the 65% renewables requirement for new heating systems, while the SPD has so far remained committed to it. The outcome of the dispute remains to be seen.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
