Open Access

Marc Ringel, Elena Dopfer

• Existing buildings account for 40 % of the final energy consumption in Germany and represent the greatest potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. To target this potential, the German federalExisting buildings account for 40 % of the final energy consumption in Germany and represent the greatest potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. To target this potential, the German federal state of Baden-Württemberg enacted mandatory refurbishment standards through the Renewable Heat Act (RHA), an innovative policy action in Europe. RHA obliges homeowners to cover a certain share of their yearly heat demand with renewable heat sources or to undertake energy efficiency measures. We surveyed experts (energy advisers, including craftsmen, building engineers and architects) to assess how effective the policy has been in stimulating refurbishments that boost energy efficiency and the use of renewable energies. The experts’ feedback suggest that the RHA has delivered overall good results. Still, its outcomes do not fully realize the potential impact of such a regulatory instrument. We recommend improvements to increase the instrument’s acceptance, its feasibility, and the surety of its implementation, adding a clear burden of proof and sanctions in case of non-compliance. Taking these concerns into account, the instrument can serve as a blueprint for other regions in Germany and Europe looking for ways to deliver increased use of renewable energies and energy efficiency in existing building stock.…