BERLIN (dpa-AFX) – The Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder (CSU) has sharply criticized the government plans to replace gas and oil heating systems. The plan by Economics Minister Robert Habeck (Greens) is “actually directed against anyone who owns property. A completely aloof plan that should by no means become reality,” said Söder of the “Bild” newspaper (Tuesday). “The dream of owning a home should be permanently destroyed in Germany.” Instead, property must become affordable again. “We need a new home ownership subsidy so that houses can be built again,” demanded the CSU chairman.
The background is the discussion about a draft law that provides for stricter rules for the installation of new heating systems from 2024. According to an agreement of the coalition of SPD, Greens and FDP from the spring of 2022, every newly installed heating system should be operated with 65 percent renewable energy from 2024 onwards. This could de facto amount to a ban on new combustion heaters. Economics Minister Habeck has promised an aid program. However, the details of the transition and operating periods that are important for many owners and tenants have not yet been determined.
The housing policy spokesman for the FDP parliamentary group, Daniel Föst, told the “Bild” newspaper: “Those who cannot afford it must be given more time to replace the heating.” The FDP will not support a ban on gas heating. “Instead, it must be clarified with suppliers where and from when green and therefore clean gas can be used,” explained Föst./brd/DP/zb