Overview
- Industry data show heat pumps outsold gas boilers in the first half of 2025, with the Bundesverband Wärmepumpe now projecting 280,000 to 290,000 units for the year, about 50% higher than 2024.
- Watchdog reviews of recent offers found total prices ranging from about €20,200 to €63,000, with frequent exclusions flagged as “bauseits” that shift costly items like foundations or electrical work outside the installer’s quote.
- An RWTH Aachen/Octopus study reports an 8 kW system costing roughly €28,000 in Germany versus about €14,000 in the UK, a gap tied to higher technical requirements, planning effort, possible meter-cabinet replacements, and full 19% VAT.
- KfW funding can cover up to 70% of eligible costs but only up to a €30,000 cap, while federal and regional politicians debate future subsidy levels; applicants who secure approval typically have up to two years to complete installation.
- Analyses from co2online and Stiftung Warentest indicate lower running costs than gas for many homes, even as EU ETS2 timing shifts, and consumer advisers recommend multiple detailed bids and suitability checks before committing.