Climate hero Bauer-Borger: This is how we save money and energy with heat pumps!

Climate hero Bauer-Borger: This is how we save money and energy with heat pumps!

Amid the ongoing discussions about climate protection and renewable energies, Gerd Bauer-Borger from Neustadt shows himself to be a pioneer of an environmentally friendly future. In front of his heat pump he is skeptical, but still convinced of the possibilities of the energy transition. He can always keep an eye on his electricity consumption using an app. “I think the concerns about possible cuts in electricity for private individuals are exaggerated,” he says, while he is convinced of the benefits for both climate protection and personal cost savings. Rhine Palatinate reports that Bauer-Borger also sees independence from foreign gas as a decisive advantage of the energy transition.

But why do heat pumps play such a central role in this discussion? In fact, the operating costs of buildings in Germany account for around 35% of final energy consumption and around 30% of CO₂ emissions. This shows how important it is to switch to sustainable heat supply. The heat pump has established itself as an efficient solution because it does not require fossil fuels and is becoming increasingly important. The Federal Environment Agency explains that this not only contributes to reducing climate-damaging emissions, but is also a key to achieving national climate goals by 2045.

Technological progress and research

In order to further promote the spread of climate-friendly technology, research is being intensified. Studies from 2024, such as those by Herkel and Schossig, look at the role of heat pumps in the overall energy transition. At the same time, a 2023 report shows that heat pumps in existing apartment buildings perform well. Fraunhofer ISE highlights that the use of heat pumps is often cheaper than conventional gas heating.

Another aspect is the adaptation of the infrastructure. The optimization of heating systems and hydraulic balancing are fundamental steps for the use of energy in buildings, which are often supplemented by innovative processes such as serial renovations. Digitalization plays a crucial role here by enabling efficient monitoring and precise control of heat consumption.

Social challenges

Despite the many positive aspects of the heating transition, there are also challenges that cannot be ignored. In Germany, many low-income households have difficulty heating their homes adequately. This is where social climate policy and municipal heat planning must come into play in order to take measures for vulnerable households. Municipalities have a central role to play in this, and it has never been more important to shape the political framework in such a way that climate-friendly behavior is supported. The Federal Environment Agency points this out that the expansion of heating networks can also contribute to greenhouse gas-neutral heat supply.

Overall, it is clear that the future of heat supply in Germany is associated with challenges, but also with exciting prospects. Gerd Bauer-Borger is leading the way and is actively living the energy transition with his experience with heat pumps and digitalization. There is definitely something to be done – for the climate and for your own wallet!