Germany Criticized for Scrapping Renewables Heating Mandate

Green Energy

GERMANY: Germany’s coalition government is facing criticism for stepping back from its climate commitments after agreeing to roll back key parts of a controversial heating law. The original law required most newly installed heating systems to run on at least 65% renewable energy, typically through heat pumps. Under the revised draft, however, homeowners will be allowed to continue using oil and gas-based systems. 

The changes also remove the requirement for homeowners to consult an expert before installing a new heating system. The earlier legislation, introduced by the Green Party and passed in 2023 under the centre-left government led by former Chancellor Olaf Scholz, was considered one of the Greens’ most ambitious climate initiatives. 

While climate specialists welcomed the law’s strong targets, it sparked backlash among voters who were already dealing with the economic aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns over energy security. These worries intensified after the war in Ukraine disrupted Russian gas supplies and pushed inflation higher.

Source: The Guardian