SPD will Erneuerbaren-Quote im Gebudeenergiegesetz beibehalten

The Social Democratic Party (SPD) in Germany is committed to maintaining the requirement in the Building Energy Act (GEG) that new heating systems must operate with at least 65% renewable energy. Nina Scheer, the SPD's energy policy spokesperson, emphasized the importance of this target, stating that any challenge to the 65% renewable energy share must be accompanied by alternatives that are equally secure, clean, and affordable. However, such alternatives are currently not evident.

The energy price crisis of 2022 highlighted the economic risks and vulnerabilities associated with dependence on fossil fuels, Scheer noted. Federal Environment Minister Carsten Schneider also supports retaining this requirement. The coalition agreement does not propose abolishing the 65% target. Instead, it suggests making the new Building Energy Act more technology-neutral, flexible, and simpler, with CO2 reduction as the central guiding metric. The agreement also plans to continue support for renovation and heating systems. In contrast, the opposition Union faction seeks to eliminate the renewable energy quota.

Andreas Lenz, the CSU's energy policy spokesperson, argued that the 65% rule is inappropriate and should be removed. He called for simplifications, describing the rule as complex and bureaucratic, and advocated for a reliable framework without prohibitions. Andreas Jung, Deputy Chairman of the CDU, agreed, stating that while climate goals remain, the coalition's heating law should not. The coalition agreement allows for local decision-making on heating systems, preferring a clear framework over rigid mandates. The building sector frequently misses targets set by the Federal Climate Protection Act. Additionally, the EU's "Effort Sharing Regulation" poses the risk of penalties if Germany fails to sufficiently reduce emissions in the building sector.