In order to achieve the goal of a climate-neutral building stock by 2045, comprehensive measures to increase efficiency through energy-efficient refurbishment and the conversion of heat generation to renewable energies are necessary. This in turn can change the housing costs of households. At the same time, the significant rise in energy prices in recent years means that housing is becoming increasingly expensive and sometimes no longer affordable for households on low and medium incomes. Against the backdrop of rising construction costs, high inflation rates and very tight real estate and rental markets in parts of Germany, a special focus must therefore be placed on affordable housing when it comes to climate protection in the building sector. 

The final report of the project “Affordable housing and climate protection taking into consideration the housing situation and housing costs of low- and middle-income households” sheds light on this conflict of objectives and derives approaches for action that enable climate-friendly and affordable housing at the same time. To this end, the authors analyze the effects of selected climate policy measures in the building sector on the various groups affected or involved. Based on the analyses, the report provides insights into sensible instruments and design options and provides policy makers with recommendations for action. The studies are supplemented by case studies of energy-efficient refurbishments carried out: With the help of interviews with the owners and tenants, the examples provide insights into the financial effects, obstacles and motivations of the stakeholders and are also included in the recommendations for action.

>>Download the report (German)<<