Emissions in the building sector in Germany could hardly be reduced in 2024, and the established emissions target was once again missed. To achieve climate neutrality by 2045, the pace of the heating transition must therefore be increased. At the same time, social sustainability should remain a key focus. Experts from “Energy Systems of the Future” (ESYS) have conducted an in-depth analysis of the challenges of the heating transition and outlined potential solutions for achieving a socio-ecological transformation in the building sector. 

The analysis addresses, among others, the following questions: 

• To what extent can focusing on buildings with poor energy performance — the so-called Worst Performing Buildings — accelerate the heating transition?
• How can social sustainability be achieved within the heating transition?
• Who is vulnerable in the heating transition, and what measures can support these groups?
• How can the quality and availability of data in the building sector be improved?
• What framework conditions are needed to ensure a successful heating transition? 

Key findings of the publication:

The experts identified a total of 17 areas for action in the ESYS analysis to support the successful implementation of the heating transition. Some overarching areas include:

• Establishing a mix of policy instruments for effective climate protection while shielding vulnerable groups from excessive burdens
• Redistributing revenues from carbon pricing
• Promoting the renovation of Worst Performing Buildings in a targeted and socially equitable manner
• Enabling and institutionalizing participation and everyday support
• Ensuring centralized data integration and availability

These areas of action make it clear that technical, social, and regulatory factors are closely interlinked in the transformation of the building sector. Only through a systemic approach can a successful socio-ecological heating transition be achieved. 

Publication (DE)