These heaters will meet the new rules from 2024

The heating law was passed. This means that new rules for heating systems will apply from 2024. Here’s an overview of everything that will still be allowed.

BERLIN – Now on the ground: The heating law – actually the Building Energy Act (GEG) – was finally approved by the Bundestag on Friday 8 September. This means that new heating rules will apply from January 1, 2024, which everyone should know about. But because there is so much controversy, not everyone knows which heaters will now meet the new regulations from next year – and which ones should be rejected. So here’s a summary.

Deadlines for replacing the heating system: from 2024 only in new buildings

The most important thing: First of all, most owners don’t have to do anything, and the new rules will only be mandatory in new buildings from 1 January 2024. For everyone else, it depends on whether and when their municipality has drawn up a municipal heating plan. It must be completed either by 2026 (large cities) or by 2028 (small communities).

If there is a municipal heating plan, owners should at least consider the options available in their homes. Consumer advocates strongly caution against waiting until your heater breaks. Speaking of which: If your existing gas or oil heater is broken, it can be fixed, too. Even if it needs to be replaced, a substandard heater can be installed again for a limited period of time. However, the clock is then ticking: owners will have five years to install a new, more climate-friendly one.

List: These heaters meet the 65 percent requirement

The following heating systems meet GEG requirements to use 65 percent renewable energy:

• Heat pumps
• Solar thermal energy
• Heating networks
• Direct electric heating
• Wood/pellet heating systems
• Biogas heating
• Liquefied gas heaters
• Hydrogen heaters
• Hybrid heating systems consisting of heat pumps and gas, biomass or oil heating

Requirements for individual heaters are specified in detail. In the case of heating networks, the owner has no influence on the energy used – however, operators must ensure that the network uses 50 percent renewable energy by 2030. Full decarbonisation must occur by 2045.

Boilers that use gas or liquid fuel must be powered by 65 percent renewable energy. This could be, for example, green hydrogen, biogas, bio-liquid gas, or bio-methane.

Wood and pellet heating systems may only be used with solar thermal energy or solar panels for hot water preparation.

Anyone wishing to install a gas heater should only do so after obtaining energy advice. This is intended to alert owners to potential cost traps. In principle, consumer advocates always recommend energy advice in order to find the best heating system for your home.