In a significant development for Germany's environmental policy, the traffic light coalition has successfully negotiated amendments to the Climate Protection Act (Klimaschutzgesetz), overcoming a critical hurdle as of April 16th, 2024. These amendments, pivotal for the building sector, are scheduled for final debate in the Bundestag in April, with expected ratification in May.
The second amendment to the Federal Climate Protection Act (KSG), a subject of intense debate for months, was endorsed by the government factions in Berlin on April 15, 2024. This revised act proposes a forward-looking, multi-year, and cross-sectoral approach to climate target monitoring, moving away from the retrospective sector-specific evaluations that previously mandated immediate corrective actions if targets were missed.
Innovations in Climate Target Monitoring
Under the new scheme, if it becomes clear over two consecutive years that the 2030 climate target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 65% relative to 1990 levels is at risk, the government will be required to intervene decisively. This marks a strategic shift from the existing reactive measures to a more proactive and comprehensive framework.
Simultaneously, an agreement was reached on the so-called solar package, which will enhance the deployment of photovoltaic systems across the country. Although the legislative text was not available immediately, the deputy leaders from the SPD, Greens, and FDP have outlined the key elements of the reform, previously approved by the Federal Cabinet in June 2023.
The Evolution of the Climate Protection Act
The current Climate Protection Act, originally passed in June 2021 with stringent measures, marked a significant step forward. The act was a response to the Federal Constitutional Court's March 2021 ruling, which found the prior legislation inadequate for post-2030 CO2 reduction targets. The revised act not only addresses these concerns but also sets ambitious new benchmarks, including achieving climate neutrality by 2045, five years earlier than previously planned.
As part of the ongoing legislative changes, future German governments will be required to present comprehensive measures at the start of each term to achieve the climate target set for 2040, which aims for an 88% reduction in emissions compared to 1990. This requirement will take effect in 2026, ensuring that climate action remains a central focus of government policy well into the future.
The Role of the Building Sector
For the building sector, the implications are profound. The shift to more rigorous climate targets necessitates accelerated efforts towards energy-efficient construction and refurbishment. Initiatives like raising the minimum energy standards for new buildings to the efficiency house standard 55 (EH55) by 2023, and subsequently to EH40 by 2025, underscore the government's commitment to sustainable development.
With this amendment to the Climate Protection Act, Germany is aiming to reaffirm its leadership in climate action, setting robust frameworks for sector-wide contributions to global environmental goals. The building sector, in particular, is poised to play a crucial role in this transformative journey, driving the nation towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future. Builders have been warned - there's no easy way ahead.
