The new advisory obligation for fossil heating systems in accordance with GEG 2024

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As of 2024, significant changes will come into force under the Building Energy Act (GEG) that affect HVAC companies (plumbing, heating, air-conditioning technology). These changes are aimed at accelerating the transition to climate-friendly heating systems and improving energy efficiency in buildings. This creates new requirements and opportunities for HVAC companies, particularly in the area of energy consulting.

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The Building Energy Act (GEG) 2024

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Objectives of the GEG

The GEG aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and increase the share of renewable energy in the heat supply. Climate neutrality should be achieved by 2045. The focus is on both new and existing buildings. From January 2024, the requirement for new buildings is that at least 65 percent of the energy for heating systems must come from renewable sources.

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Obligations for renovation and modernization

Existing buildings play a central role, as they account for the majority of energy consumption. This includes replacement and retrofitting obligations as well as conditional requirements for modernizations. For example, new heating and hot water pipes in unheated rooms must be insulated, and top floors leading to unheated roof spaces had to be insulated retroactively by the end of 2015.

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The obligation to provide advice in accordance with GEG

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Scope and implementation

The advisory obligation comes into force from 2024 and relates to the installation of heating systems that run on liquid or gaseous fuels. Mandatory advice must be carried out, pointing out the potential effects of local heating planning and potential inefficiency, in particular due to rising CO2 pricing.

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Qualified energy consultants

The advice must be carried out by an expert, such as a qualified energy consultant and an installer. The BMWK and BMWSB provide an information sheet for mandatory advice.

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Free mandatory consultation

Mandatory advice is free of charge if it is offered free of charge as an individual service. The Consumer Center and the Association of Building Energy Consultants Engineers Craftsmen e.V. (GIH) offer appropriate databases for mandatory advice free of charge.

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The role of HVAC companies

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Opportunities and challenges

HVAC companies can use these new requirements as an opportunity to expand their expertise in the area of energy consulting. They should familiarise themselves with the details of the GEG and enter into partnerships with qualified energy consultants to offer their clients more comprehensive advice.

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Use of software solutions

Software solutions such as Autarc can help HVAC companies to make the consulting process efficient and effective. With tools for data analysis, consulting protocols and customer communication, they can meet GEG's requirements.

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Conclusion

The introduction of the advisory obligation under the GEG represents an important step towards a more sustainable future. For SHK companies, this means an expansion of their range of services and the opportunity to position themselves as competent partners in the area of energy efficiency. With the right strategies and tools, they can overcome these challenges and make a significant contribution to the energy revolution. As an HVAC company, autarc's software helps you make optimal use of these new opportunities.

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Image rights: BMWK/BMWSB