The German government will amend the Law on Energy Performance of Buildings, maintaining the requirement that all new heating systems must use 65% renewable energy from 2026.

The German federal government announces changes to the Energy Performance of Buildings Act (GEG), but maintains the requirement that, starting in mid-2026, all new heating systems in large cities must use at least 65% renewable energy. This measure targets cities with over 100,000 inhabitants, affecting approximately 80 municipalities. The Federal Minister for the Environment, Carsten Schneider, reaffirmed that the rule will not be diluted and that the current deadlines remain in effect, continuing the direction set by the former coalition.

The GEG, adopted in 2023, provides for different transitions for existing and new buildings, correlating the obligation to use renewable energy with local heating plans. Hydrogen-based infrastructure projects can accelerate the implementation of the rule. By October 2025, approximately 38% of large cities will finalize their urban heating plans.

The government emphasizes the importance of accelerating the thermal transition, providing technological flexibility through solutions such as heat pumps and renewable gas plants. Smaller municipalities may have the deadline extended until 2028, but the message remains clear: phasing out fossil fuel heating systems is essential for reducing emissions and energy modernization.