How to save energy, emissions and money in the building sector

Buildings account for around 35 % of Germany's total final energy consumption. Residential buildings account for the largest share of buildings' energy consumption for heating, hot water, lighting and cooling. From an energy and climate policy perspective, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in the building sector is of great importance. Economical and effective solutions contributing to the"Wärmewende", the transition to sustainable heating, can also contribute significantly to reducing energy imports.

The successful transition to sustainable heating, i.e., saving thermal energy and decarbonizing heat consumption, is highly relevant for achieving Germany's energy and climate policy goals. High savings effects for the energy raw materials natural gas and heating oil are seen not only in new buildings, but above all in existing residential buildings. But what savings can be achieved with the various measures? Which investments are worthwhile for building owners? Which political decisions can support the implementation of the necessary investments?

The TAB report "Energy saving effects in the building sector" presents concrete and practical principles and options for action. The TAB report is thus not only aimed at decision-makers in politics and housing companies, but can also provide owners of multi-family and single-family houses with basic orientation.

TAB-Arbeitsbericht Nr. 200 (only available in German) and the associated TAB-Fokus Issues No. 38 (de/en) are available online. We will be happy to send you a free print version - as long as it is in stock - after you order it from the secretariat (e-mail: buero∂tab-beim-bundestag.de).

June 23, 2022