Germany mandates remote reading for heating meters by 2027

Starting January 1, 2027, German heating cost regulations will prohibit the use of non-remote-readable devices for consumption billing. The transition period for existing equipment ends on December 31, 2026, requiring landlords to retrofit or replace non-compliant devices before the deadline.

Under the Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizkostenV), which implements the European Energy Efficiency Directive (EED), landlords must also provide monthly consumption information (uVI) to tenants where remote-readable equipment is installed. While this information requirement has been in effect since 2022 for equipped buildings, it will apply to all affected buildings starting in 2027.

Failure to comply with these mandates may result in financial penalties. Tenants have a legal right to reduce their heating cost payments by 3 percent if remote-readable devices are not installed, and an additional 3 percent reduction if monthly consumption information is not provided or is incomplete. Experts advise landlords to begin planning and installation immediately to avoid potential delays caused by high demand.