Hamburg Heating Subsidy

The Hamburg heating subsidy supports private owners of existing buildings and neighborhood stakeholders with non-repayable grants for the replacement and modernization of heating systems. Eligible measures include, for example, heat pumps including ancillary measures, connections to heat and neighborhood networks, as well as house connection lines. Feasibility studies and specialist planning for neighborhood heating solutions are also eligible for funding. The goal is to reduce energy demand, increase efficiency, and raise the share of renewable energies in Hamburg. A prerequisite for approval is the submission of the application before the start of the project via the digital e-application portal, execution by companies registered in the craftsmen’s roll, and compliance with the Hamburg Climate Protection Act (§ 17) and the ESG exclusion list. Evaluation criteria particularly include the CO₂ savings potential, the use of renewable energies, and the efficiency improvement in the building stock or neighborhood.

Applications can be submitted continuously, provided that the approval notice is issued before the conclusion of supply or service contracts. Along with the application document, powers of attorney for multiple owners and a subsequent proof of use must be submitted via the digital form. Investment costs for heat pumps and network connections, expansion of building networks, as well as costs for specialist planning are considered eligible. The responsible authority is the Hamburg Investment and Development Bank (IFB Hamburg), which, as the central development bank of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, provides grants and loans for climate protection, environmental, and building renovation. As a digital interface, it offers comprehensive advice as well as the e-application portal to ensure a smooth process from application to settlement.