Germany's heating law sparks political chaos as reforms stall
Germany's contentious heating law, introduced in January 2024, continues to face strong opposition. The rule mandates that new heating systems use 65% renewable energy, but critics argue it has created ambiguity rather than clarity. Now, politicians from various parties are pressing for urgent revisions to address persistent uncertainty.
Kassem Taher Saleh, the Green Party's housing policy spokesperson, has accused the federal government of inaction. Nine months after the reform was announced, he claims there are still no concrete proposals on the table. This delay, he warns, is jeopardizing jobs and slowing the transition to renewable heating.
Saleh is advocating for a swift agreement to provide businesses and households with much-needed planning certainty. His concerns are echoed by Violetta Bock of the Left Party, who criticizes the CDU for being stuck in 'announcement mode' instead of addressing real issues. Bock is calling for expanded means-tested funding to assist households with rising heating costs. She also wants legally binding protections for tenants to prevent unfair price increases.
Despite the law's implementation, there remains little clear data on how households and companies have actually responded. The lack of information has only added to the frustration among industry leaders and policymakers alike.
The pressure is now on the government to deliver clear reforms. Without prompt action, the heating law risks causing further disruption for businesses and households. Politicians from both the Greens and the Left Party insist that stronger measures are needed to ensure a fair and effective transition.
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