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Current Regulations on Oil and Gas Heating Systems
Germany’s Gebäudemodernisierungsgesetz (Building Modernization Act) allows the installation of new oil and gas heating systems, despite previous restrictions under the former Gebäudeenergiegesetz (Building Energy Act). Although legislation continues to promote renewable energy use in heating, new fossil fuel heating systems remain permissible under certain conditions. Notably, new oil and gas heating systems installed from 2029 will be required to use an increasing share of renewable fuels, starting with a mandatory minimum of 15% green fuels such as biomethane or hydrogen, rising to 60% by 2040 [Source 2][Source 3][Source 6].
The law includes provisions for buildings that cannot be connected to a district heating or hydrogen network immediately. In such cases, gas heating systems that are convertible to 100% hydrogen remain allowed, and contracts promising connection to renewable networks within ten years enable transitional use of fossil gas [Source 2].
Impact on Expats and Foreign Residents
Expats, international students, and foreign workers living in Germany—particularly renters and homeowners—should be aware of these evolving heating regulations. For those living in older apartments or owned properties with oil or gas heaters, existing systems may continue to be used unless they are over 30 years old or specifically classified as constant temperature oil boilers, which require replacement [Source 7]. In larger cities with over 100,000 residents, from January 2024, heating systems in new buildings or major renovations must derive at least 65% of their energy from renewable sources, influencing decisions on heating upgrades [Source 4][Source 8].
Since many expats rent, it’s essential to understand that landlords are increasingly expected to modernize heating systems in compliance with these rules, potentially impacting rental costs and decisions depending on heating upgrades implemented. Moreover, those planning to install or replace heating equipment should consider the obligation to incorporate renewable components gradually, which could affect installation timelines and costs [Source 3][Source 4].
Practical Considerations and Next Steps
Homeowners and residents should monitor local heat network plans, as municipal heat or hydrogen network availability can influence the types of heating systems installable. Contracts guaranteeing future network access may allow temporarily continued use of fossil gas heating [Source 2]. For building owners, it is advisable to consult professionals about compliance deadlines and renewable energy shares to avoid penalties and take advantage of government incentives for heat pumps and hybrid systems [Source 3][Source 4].
Overall, the policy framework aims for a gradual transition rather than an immediate ban on fossil-fuel heating. Existing oil and gas installations remain operable, but updating heating systems with renewable integration becomes mandatory within the next decades. Expats should consider these timelines when planning their housing arrangements or heating upgrades in Germany to ensure legal compliance and optimize energy efficiency [Source 1].
For further information, including the original German article, visit: Tagesschau on heating system laws.
