Bayern SPD demands improvements to new Heating Law - Bavaria's heating law battle pits tenant protections against rising energy costs
A political dispute over heating law reforms is growing between the SPD and the CSU in Bavaria. The SPD wants stricter rules to protect tenants from rising costs, while the Union bloc pushes to scrap key parts of the existing 'heating law'. Bavaria has already received over half a billion euros in federal funding under current regulations.
The SPD has proposed changes to the Building Energy Act that would limit how much landlords can charge tenants for new gas or oil heating installations. Currently, property owners can pass on most costs, but the party wants to reduce this share. They also plan to keep mandatory energy consultations when replacing heating systems and explore new subsidies.
Bavaria's SPD branch is demanding stronger tenant protections in the reforms. They argue that without these, renters could face higher bills. The state has already benefited significantly from federal heating legislation, securing €570.7 million in funding.
The Union bloc and SPD are working to overhaul the law, but disagreements remain. Under the proposed reforms, gas and oil heating could still be installed if a portion of climate-friendly fuels is used from 2029. However, the SPD in Bavaria has criticised the CSU's push for amendments, calling it confusing.
The German Tenants' Association and many experts have warned that the reforms could still increase costs for renters. Their concerns add pressure on lawmakers to adjust the plans before finalising the changes.
The heating law reforms remain contentious, with Bavaria's SPD insisting on better tenant safeguards. The state has already received substantial federal funds, but future rules could shift cost burdens. Negotiations between the SPD and Union bloc will determine how the final law balances climate goals with affordability for renters.
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