Germany saw the fewest heating system sales in 2025 as it did in 2010. Overall sales across all device classes declined by 12 percent compared to the previous year, according to the annual report from the German Heating Industry Federation (BDH), as reported by the dpa news agency.
The demand for oil heating systems experienced a particularly sharp drop, with 22,500 units sold – a decrease of 74 percent. Gas heating systems also saw a 36 percent decline in sales within a year, totaling 229,000 gas condensing boilers.
Conversely, heat pumps experienced significant growth, surpassing gas condensing boilers as the best-selling heating system. Heat pump sales increased by 55 percent to approximately 299,000 units last year.
“The Situation is Difficult”
Sales of biomass heating systems rose by 23 percent, with wood pellet stove sales increasing by 38 percent. However, the total number of these systems sold remained relatively low, at around 29,000 units.
“The situation is difficult, the heating industry is facing economic challenges,” said BDH CEO Markus Staudt to Welt am Sonntag. He called for “finally stable legal regulations and funding conditions,” warning that otherwise, “personnel measures” such as job cuts and reduced working hours could be expected. Heating system sales already fell by 25 percent in 2024.
Federal Government Aims to Abolish Heating Law
The federal government originally intended to present key points for a new Building Energy Act (GEG) by the end of January. A spokesperson for the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs stated on Friday that discussions between ministries and parliamentary groups were ongoing. “We are very keen to reach a conclusion soon.”
The last reform of the GEG was passed by the current coalition government and is often referred to as the Heating Law. The CDU, CSU, and SPD agreed in their coalition agreement to “abolish” this law, while simultaneously, the SPD wants to maintain the basic idea of promoting the installation of climate-friendly heating systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the overall trend in heating system sales in Germany in 2025?
Overall sales of heating systems in Germany decreased by 12 percent in 2025 compared to the previous year, reaching levels not seen since 2010.
Which type of heating system saw the largest decline in sales?
Oil heating systems experienced the most significant decline in sales, with a decrease of 74 percent, selling only 22,500 units.
What type of heating system saw an increase in sales?
Heat pump sales increased significantly, rising by 55 percent to approximately 299,000 units, and surpassing gas condensing boilers as the most sold heating system.
How will the ongoing debate over the Building Energy Act (GEG) potentially impact the heating industry in the coming months?
