The Call for Energy Efficiency: An Imperative Appeal

A report recently published by the ifeu-Institute for Energy and Environmental Research, commissioned by the German Environmental Aid (DUH) and supported by the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB), advocates the pivotal role of energy efficiency for a successful energy transition, in addition to long-term affordability of heating costs. The study focuses on the necessity of energetically refurbishing the most inefficient buildings. Consequently, the DUH is advocating for a prompt implementation of the measures presented in the report. These include the refurbishment of worst-performing buildings (buildings with the poorest energy performance) and the reform of the subsidy landscape, in addition to the adjustment of regulatory legislation and definite political goals.

DUH's Standpoint

Barbara Metz, Federal Managing Director of the DUH, insists on a distinct policy shift in building management. "A comprehensive refurbishment of buildings in Germany ensures the affordability of heating costs for everyone in the future and the achievement of climate goals. It's alarming that the Union and SPD have utterly overlooked this topic in the coalition talks thus far,” she remarked. Metz expressed her concern that politicians were leaving folks with medium and low incomes out in the cold. According to her, the importance of energy efficiency as a foundation for a socially equitable heat transition is undeniable, thus pressing negotiation teams to ensure a renovation wave is triggered with the climate protection special fund. "If this is achieved, it means long-term value preservation of the building stock and affordable living for all," she added. Metz also warned against the misplaced focus in the Building Energy Act on emission efficiency.

Background Information

The study, commissioned by the DUH, is grounded in scientific analyses and research. As per the DUH, it strongly emphasizes the crucial role of energy efficiency for the climate goals and a socially just heat transition. The focal point is the ‘worst-performing buildings,’ which due to their poor energy efficiency, impose a heavy burden on the residents and the energy system.

In Summary: The DUH Remarks

According to the ifeu report commissioned by the DUH, unrenovated buildings with the worst efficiency grades consume up to 10 times more energy than modern ones, but are largely politically ignored. The study evidences that energetic refurbishments permanently reduce energy costs, improve the quality of life, and relieve electricity and heat networks. The report presents targeted measures to increase the renovation rate and effective modernization of the worst-performing buildings (buildings with the poorest energy efficiency).

Looking Ahead: Smarter Energy Use with Storage Solutions

As Germany moves toward more energy-efficient buildings and a socially fair heat transition, one thing becomes clear: sustainable energy solutions go beyond just insulation and heat pumps. Energy storage plays a key role in making buildings smarter and more self-sufficient—especially when paired with solar power. That’s where companies like ACE Battery come in.

As a leader in lithium battery technology and energy storage systems, ACE Battery helps homeowners and businesses store renewable energy efficiently, cut energy bills, and lower their carbon footprint. Our solutions align perfectly with the goals of reducing energy demand and building a cleaner, more resilient energy future.

Ready to power your building with smarter energy storage? Discover ACE Battery’s ESS solutions today and take the next step toward energy independence and sustainability.