A leading figure within the Social Democratic Party (SPD) has voiced support for a more equitable distribution of subsidies for heating system replacements. Matthias Miersch, parliamentary group leader for the SPD, stated in an interview with Funke-Mediengruppe newspapers that he “definitely” favors a system where higher-income individuals receive less generous support.
Miersch emphasized that while he advocates for continued subsidies, the escalating carbon price in coming years will significantly increase the cost of gas and oil heating systems. He stressed that this rise could financially burden a large segment of the population, underlining the necessity of the existing, more generous subsidy scheme. “We must ensure consumers are not trapped in a cost spiral and are able to afford the transition to a new heating system” he explained.
Despite calls for reform, Miersch dismissed the possibility of a fundamental shift in policy regarding building energy legislation. He acknowledged the potential to streamline the existing bureaucracy and advocated for a broader assessment of a building’s overall ecological footprint. However, he cautioned against suggesting a standstill in climate protection measures within the building sector, labeling such a proposition as “negligent.
The current coalition agreement between the conservative and SPD parties stipulates the repeal of the existing “heating law” followed by a commitment to make the Building Energy Act (GEG) more technology-neutral, flexible and accessible.