These decisions are often taken on a national level, but individuals, too, can take steps towards more independence from fossiel fuels. There is a lot of information online, which can quickly become overwhelming.
The “Klima-Agence”, a national advice agency for residents, councils and the government, is a good first point of contact. But, due to the high level of demand, there are currently delays to get an appointment.
Solar panels very popular
Requests for photovoltaic systems have surged in recent years, and even more so in the past few weeks, says energy consultant Sarah Juchems. Using the Geoportal’s “solar cadastre”, everyone can check for themselves whether solar panels make sense for their house. There is a minimum surface requirement and the roof needs to face in the right direction.
Cutting fossil fuel use?
To reduce the use of gas and heating oil, a heat pump can be a viable alternative, as well as other heating options. But in the near future, it will be very hard to completely cut out fossil fuels, says Fenn Faber, director of the Klima-Agence. Renewables will make up more and more of the energy mix, however.
