Top five energy-efficient building modernization projects

When it comes to saving on heating costs, most homeowners in Germany take a step-by-step approach: Instead of renovating the entire house at once, many owners opt for individual measures. Replacing old boilers was once again the top of the five most frequently subsidized modernization measures last year. This is shown by an analysis of the latest funding statistics from the state-owned KfW bank by the German Energy Agency (dena). In 2015, KfW supported around 63,000 new condensing boilers, heat pumps, solar thermal systems, pellet heating systems, and other efficient heating technologies.

The installation of thermal insulation glazing once again ranks second among the most popular individual measures in the latest KfW statistics: The replacement of old windows was subsidized approximately 52,700 times. Roof insulation (around 22,300 times) and facade insulation (around 10,000 times) occupy third and fourth place, respectively. Fifth place is held by the inspection and optimization of existing heating systems, for example through hydraulic balancing (around 3,200 times).

Little change compared to the previous year

Last year, KfW supported a total of around 152,500 individual measures . Compared to the previous year (around 155,500), this represents only minor changes. The ranking of the most popular modernization measures remained unchanged. While boiler replacements received more funding, funding commitments for measures affecting the building envelope declined slightly.

On-site consultation helps in choosing the appropriate individual measure

Which individual measure is most effective in saving on heating costs can vary from house to house. Homeowners should therefore seek qualified on-site energy advice before undertaking any renovations. The advisor will examine the building structure and heating system, provide recommendations for sensible improvements, and assess whether a potential measure is worthwhile. On-site energy advice for single-family and two-family homes is subsidized by the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) with up to €800.

Image: © dena

Source of text and image: www.geb-info.de, German Energy Agency (dena). Energy-efficient renovation, modernization, boilers, heating systems, window replacement, insulation, energy-saving measures, energy-efficient house. Source: obs/German Energy Agency (dena)/German Energy Agency (dena)