From the point of view of the consumer advice centers, there is a risk of a cost trap when investing in new gas heating systems. CO2 prices are expected to continue to rise as early as next year. In addition, the installation has become massively more expensive.
The Federal Association of Consumer Centers (VZBV) strongly advises against installing a new gas heating system in a house or apartment. The head of the association, Ramona Pop, told the “Rheinische Post” that the installation of such a heating system can now only be warned. “Gas and oil prices will rise as the carbon price of fossil fuels increases year on year.”
“The necessary clarity is still missing”
The federal government has announced for 2024 that the previously suspended increase in CO2 prices should be continued. “In 2024 alone, the price of a tonne of CO2 should increase by 17 percent to 35 euros,” said Pop.
A gas heater generates around 200 grams of carbon dioxide (CO2) per kilowatt hour. This means that, for example, in a two-room apartment – with a consumption of 10,000 kilowatt hours per year – around two tons of CO2 are emitted. This would mean a CO2 surcharge of 70 euros in the coming year.
Pop also criticizes the planned heating law. “The heating law has not improved as a result of the long debate, consumers still lack the necessary clarity. The hodgepodge of options overwhelms them.” In addition, there was a risk of cost traps, for example due to the quick purchase of a gas heating system.
Heaters up to 25 percent more expensive
Heating systems have become considerably more expensive in Germany over the past two years. “On average, the prices for heating systems have increased by around 25 percent in 2021 and probably even a little more in 2022,” said Stefan Materne from the energy consultancy of the VZBV of the German Press Agency – based on his own market study.
The association asked local and regional energy consultancies for quotes from craftsmen. The result: The average prices for air-to-water heat pumps rose from 20,000 euros in 2021 to 31,000 euros this year. Pellet heating systems increased in price from 27,000 to 37,000 euros in the same period. But the price for installing a gas floor heating system also increased from 6,000 to 10,000 euros.
The price increase partly reflects the increase in raw material and energy costs, but part of the cost increase is certainly also due to high demand. “The market is overheating,” said Materne. However, there are big regional differences.