Germany’s Green Party wants people to use heat pumps to save energy. Some are balking

Germany’s Green Party is pushing for the adoption of heat pumps to save energy, but some critics are concerned about the costs involved.

The technology: Heat pumps use a fan to draw outdoor air and extract warmth, providing an energy-efficient heating solution.
* The cost of electricity needed to power a heat pump is around a third cheaper than natural gas, and savings are even greater when using solar panels.

Proposed legislation: A new bill would ban gas boilers and require heat pump installations by 2024.
* The Green Party hopes to replace the country’s gas and oil heating infrastructure to combat high energy prices and address climate concerns.
* The proposal has faced backlash from homeowners concerned about the costs of upgrading their heating systems.

Economic impact: Critics argue the bill would result in significant financial burdens on homeowners and could cost Germany’s GDP around a quarter of its value.
* The Green Party has suggested offering subsidies to middle-class homeowners to help with heat pump installations.

Public opinion: The legislation has led to some German citizens losing trust in the Green Party’s approach to climate protection.
* Some believe the speed and cost of proposed changes outweigh the environmental benefits.

View original article on NPR

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