German cities phase out gas networks, schools start serial renovations

Eight major German cities, home to around ten million residents, must submit municipal heat plans by 30 June. The plans aim to phase out gas networks by 2040‑2045 to meet the national goal of climate‑neutral heating by 2045. Most cities intend full shutdown, while Essen is considering converting about 17 % of its gas grid to hydrogen. Alternatives such as biomethane are discussed in Hannover and Leipzig.

Across Germany, 11 000 municipalities face a requirement to renovate the poorest‑performing non‑residential buildings by 2033 under the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive. A workshop in Mainz highlighted a serial‑renovation approach that uses digital planning and prefabricated façade elements, allowing schools to be refurbished during summer breaks. The Integrated Comprehensive School Kreyenbrück in Oldenburg was renovated in this way, achieving up to 90 % energy savings. Funding is available through the Federal Efficient Building Programme with low‑interest loans and subsidies covering up to half of the costs.