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Chemnitz is facing a heating transition: gas, wood or sun? That's how it works!
Chemnitz discusses future-proof heating solutions. New laws promote renewable energies until 2028. Find out more here!
Chemnitz is facing a heating transition: gas, wood or sun? That's how it works!
A lot could soon happen in the area of heating supply in Cologne. Currently, most apartments in the city still heat with natural gas boilers. But with the new Building Energy Act (GEG) coming into force, changes are imminent. These regulations are intended to promote the switch to climate-friendly heating alternatives. The apartment owners are primarily concerned with the question of which heating solutions are best used in the future.
The energy supplier Eins is currently laying district heating pipes on Barbarossastrasse, which can definitely be seen as a step in the right direction. However, there are still a variety of heating options available to Cologne homeowners. The shift to renewable energy is not only important for the environment, it is also supported by government incentives.
New law brings a breath of fresh air
As the federal government reports, from January 2024 only heating systems that are based on at least 65 percent renewable energy will be installed in new buildings within new development areas. This begins a transition period in which municipalities, including Cologne, must determine by 2028 where climate-neutral gas networks and heating networks will be expanded. Large cities even have until 2026.
The new GEG plan aims to advance the heating transition more quickly. A remarkable goal: Germany wants to be climate neutral by 2045, while three quarters of heating systems are currently still based on fossil gas or oil. From 2028, it will even be mandatory for new heating systems to use a larger proportion of renewable energy.
Funding opportunities for owners
What is particularly interesting for homeowners is that applications for funding for heating replacement will also be possible from August 27, 2024. Owners can receive up to 35 percent of the investment costs reimbursed, while particularly efficient measures can offer an additional bonus. In addition, from February 27, 2024, homeowners will also be able to apply for subsidies from KfW, with a maximum subsidy of up to 70 percent, depending on income.
The financial support options also include other energy-related renovation measures such as insulation or new windows. Energy advice is even encouraged, helping owners make the best possible decisions when it comes to heating systems.
Pragmatic approaches for the transition period
The regulations surrounding heating breakdowns are particularly interesting: Existing systems can be repaired, which offers a pragmatic solution for many owners. Landlords who take advantage of subsidies are not allowed to pass on the costs of replacing the heating system to the rent, which is a further incentive to deal with the changes.
With a continuous increase in the CO2 price for fossil fuels, which will rise to 45 euros per ton from 2024 and continue to rise until 2027, the pressure on existing systems will grow. One thing is certain: the change towards more environmentally friendly heating solutions in Cologne is just around the corner and offers numerous opportunities for everyone who takes action now.