German Heating Law (GEG) 2025: What Applies Now
The Building Energy Act (GEG) has been in force since January 2024. 65% renewable energy for new heating systems. Here you will find all current regulations, deadlines, and subsidies.
Key Facts at a Glance:
- Since 01.01.2024: GEG (Heating Law) in force
- 65% renewable energy for new heating (currently only new construction areas)
- Existing oil/gas heaters may continue to operate
- Subsidies up to 70% available
- Fossil fuel heating permitted until 31.12.2044
The so-called Heating Law is the amendment to the Building Energy Act (GEG - Gebaeudeenergiegesetz). It was passed at the end of 2023 and came into force on January 1, 2024. The central requirement: New heating systems must operate at least 65 percent with renewable energy. However, there are numerous exceptions and transition periods.
Current Regulations Since January 2024
New Buildings in New Construction Areas
Since 01.01.2024, the 65% rule applies to new heating systems in new buildings within new construction areas.
Existing Buildings
Existing oil and gas heaters may continue to be operated and repaired as long as they are functional. Only for boilers older than 30 years (constant temperature boilers), a replacement obligation applies.
⏰Important Deadlines
Municipal Heat Planning is Decisive
Municipalities with over 100,000 inhabitants:
Transition period until mid-2026
Municipalities under 100,000 inhabitants:
Transition period until mid-2028
Gas and oil heaters installed after these deadlines must operate with at least 65% green energy sources.
End Date for Fossil Fuel Heating
According to the Heating Law, the operation of heating systems with fossil fuels is permitted until December 31, 2044. From 2045, buildings may only be heated with renewable energy.
Current Subsidies (As of 2025)
Various subsidies are available for replacing old heating systems, which can be combined:
Climate Speed Bonus
For replacing oil, gas floor, coal, and night storage heaters
Income Bonus
For households with max. 40,000 euros taxable annual income
Efficiency Bonus
For heat pumps with natural refrigerant or ground/water/wastewater heat
Maximum combinable subsidy:
70%
of eligible costs
⚠️Fines for Violations
Fines are threatened for violations of the Heating Law:
The specific amount depends on the severity of the violation. Those who continue to operate their fossil heating after the transition period face the highest fines.
Political Developments
The new federal government has announced in its coalition agreement that it will revise the Heating Law. It is expected to become "more technology-open, flexible, and simpler."
Current status: Existing subsidies remain in place for now. An amendment is expected by May 2026. Details are still open.
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