Berlin's gas heating dilemma sparks political clash over climate goals
Berlin's heating systems are facing major changes as the city works toward climate neutrality by 2045. A recent political debate has highlighted tensions over the future of gas infrastructure, with the Green Party pushing for a gradual phase-out. Meanwhile, nearly half of the capital's apartments still rely directly on natural gas for warmth.
According to the 2022 microcensus, just over 45 percent of Berlin's apartments—around 970,000—are heated directly with natural gas. Another 43 percent use district heating, a separate network supplying thermal energy. While this system avoids individual gas contracts, it currently depends on gas for 77 percent of its generation.
The Green Party's platform for the 2026 state elections calls for decommissioning the gas grid over time. Redundant sections would be removed in a way that avoids unfair burdens on residents. The party also supports decarbonising high-pressure pipelines, with some switching to hydrogen by 2032.
Criticism came from Hubert Aiwanger, leader of the Free Voters party, who accused the Greens of planning to shut down the gas grid entirely. His remarks followed the release of the party's climate-neutrality goals, which include phasing out fossil fuels in heating. Under national law, cities must submit heating transition plans by June 2026.
Berlin's reliance on gas is higher than the national average. While around 50 percent of German and Munich households use gas, in Berlin, 80 percent of apartments are connected to the grid—even if not all use it as their primary heat source.
The debate comes as Berlin prepares to meet legal deadlines for heating reforms. With district heating already shifting toward hydrogen and the gas grid facing potential cuts, the city's energy transition will affect millions of households. The Green Party's proposals aim for a full exit from fossil heating by 2045, but implementation will require balancing climate targets with residents' needs.
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