The WPG sets the target of generating an average of half of grid-based heat in a climate-neutral manner by 2030 and 100 percent by 2045. In addition, a target is set for the operators of existing heating networks to feed at least 30 percent of the heating networks with heat produced from renewable energy or unavoidable waste heat or a combination of both by 2030 and 80 percent by 2040.
Meeting this target for the integration of RE or unavoidable waste heat is promoted by the federal funding for efficient heating networks (BEW). From March 1, 2025, the WPG will legally require new heating networks to use 65% renewable energy, unavoidable waste heat or a combination thereof.
According to Section 30 WPG, the share of biomass in the annual amount of heat generated in new heating networks with a length of more than 50 kilometers is limited to a maximum of 25 percent from 1 January 2024.
According to Section 31 WPG, the share of biomass in the amount of heat generated annually in all heating grids with a length of more than 50 kilometers is limited to a maximum of 15 percent from January 1, 2045.
There is no limit on the proportion of biomass for small grids with a length of less than 50 kilometers.
Due to the operational and economic structure of these grids, meeting further technical requirements is only feasible to a limited extent. In addition, it should be possible in rural regions to exploit the value creation potential of locally available biomass where there is no major competition for use. As a result of the potential analysis for the planned area, the locations of the identified technical supply potentials must be mapped for the required heating plan, stating the respective technology and the type of energy generation, as well as the usable amount of energy per year.
The Renewable Energies Heat Act (EEWärmeG) came into force at the beginning of 2009 and was adapted to EU legislation in May 2011. With the Building Energy Act (GEG), the EEWärmeG expired on November 1, 2020. The regulations and usage obligations of the EEWärmeG have been integrated into the GEG. This means that all current requirements for the use of renewable energies (including biomethane) in the heating sector are now regulated in the GEG.
