EnEVGEG

EnEVGEG is a proposed German regulatory framework intended to consolidate and supersede the country’s existing energy-related building regulations, combining elements of the Energy Saving Ordinance (EnEV) and the Building Energy Act (GEG). In this concept, EnEVGEG would provide a single, unified set of rules for the energy performance of buildings, calculation methods, labeling, and enforcement.

Scope and objectives

The imagined scope covers both new construction and substantial renovations, with aims to reduce primary energy demand, increase the use of renewable energy in buildings, and align national standards with European Union energy directives such as the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive. It would seek to standardize performance metrics, calculation procedures, and certification processes across federal states.

Key provisions (proposed)

EnEVGEG would typically include requirements for energy performance certificates, standardized energy labels, and minimum efficiency standards for new buildings. For existing buildings, it could mandate retrofit timelines or staged upgrades during renovations, specify heating-system efficiency targets, and encourage or require incorporation of renewable energy sources. The act would define enforcement mechanisms, penalties for non-compliance, and transitional rules to manage phasing in of new standards, plus alignment with EPBD calculations and primary energy factors.

Implementation and status

As of now, EnEVGEG is not an enacted law. It appears in discussions and policy proposals as a way to streamline Germany’s building energy regime. Its enactment would require federal legislation and parliamentary approval, with potential transitional periods and implementation details to be determined.

Impact and reception

Supporters argue that a unified framework would simplify compliance, accelerate decarbonization of the building stock, and provide clear long-term signals for planners and developers. Critics caution about transitional costs for owners, administrative complexity, and policy uncertainty during the integration process.

See also

EnEV, GEG, Building energy efficiency, Energy performance certificate, EPBD.