Funding programs for ventilation systems
To achieve the ambitious environmental and climate goals of the European Union and the German federal government, the government has a strong interest in optimizing the energy efficiency of both existing and new buildings. A key aspect of this is increasing energy efficiency, particularly through modern building technology. Ventilation systems play a crucial role here, as they not only ensure a healthy indoor climate but can also significantly contribute to reducing energy consumption. As a result, owners of existing buildings can currently benefit from a variety of government subsidy programs specifically designed for the installation or modernization of ventilation systems. In the following article, we explain in detail who is eligible to apply for these subsidies, what technical requirements must be met, and the amount of funding available.
Which ventilation systems are eligible for state subsidies?
Of course, only ventilation systems that make a significant contribution to improving the energy efficiency of a house are eligible for funding. The following ventilation systems are therefore generally eligible for funding:
• Central and decentralized ventilation systems
• Compact appliances with air/air heat exchanger
• Exhaust air heat pump with a heat recovery rate of at least 80 percent
Poor indoor air with high humidity is not only harmful to the health of the occupants, it also causes mold and structural damage to the building itself. It is often difficult to achieve optimum ventilation in a home simply by opening the windows. Ventilation systems, on the other hand, ensure a good indoor climate and also reduce energy costs. Instead of letting energy escape through open windows, ventilation systems are already being integrated as an integral part of many new buildings. They are also highly efficient as part of renovation projects.
The BEG subsidy for efficient buildings
One possible subsidy is the federal subsidy for efficient buildings, which has been awarded by the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA) since January 1, 2021. As part of the funding programme for ventilation systems, you can receive a grant of up to 20% for the replacement or modernization of an existing ventilation system and the installation of a new system. In addition, the installation of digital systems that help to optimize consumption is also eligible.
The following costs are eligible:
- Installation of the system
- Finishing work & Wall breakthroughs
- Laying air ducts
- Electrical connections & Panels
- Plastering & painting work
A minimum investment volume of at least 2,000 euros is a prerequisite for funding. The eligible costs for energy-efficient residential buildings are capped at 60,000 euros for each residential unit. If the installation, replacement or modernization of the ventilation system is part of a refurbishment plan, you are entitled to an additional subsidy bonus of 5%.
⇒ Important: The application must be submitted together with the energy consultant
In order to apply for a grant for ventilation systems, the application must be submitted together with an energy efficiency expert. The specialist company may only be commissioned to carry out the measures after the application has been submitted.
Further information is available here from the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control.
KfW Funding Programs for Financing Energy-Efficient Buildings
KfW Bank regularly launches new programs to promote efficient residential ventilation systems. Under KfW Program 262, loans are provided for individual measures such as the installation of ventilation systems. The maximum loan amount is 60,000 euros, with a maximum repayment subsidy of 20%.
⇒ Important to know: This subsidy is specifically intended for the energy-efficient renovation of existing buildings. Therefore, the KfW loan is only granted for buildings for which a notice of construction or building permit application was submitted before February 1, 2002. Newer buildings are therefore excluded from this subsidy. Here, too, an energy consultant must confirm the eligibility of the measures and compliance with the minimum technical requirements. In addition, the subsidy application must be submitted before the renovation project begins. In addition to the nationwide subsidies, there are also state-specific subsidy programs for ventilation systems that apply only to the respective state.
Here is more information from KfW Bank.