PRESS STATEMENT Heating Act: IG Metall Calls for Planning Certainty, Local Content Requirements, and Greater Collective Bargaining Coverage

Jürgen Kerner, Second Chairman of IG Metall: “The federal government’s building energy policy lacks strategic clarity. Due to the complexity of the draft bill, we fear continued uncertainty and, as a result, reluctance to invest. This jeopardizes jobs in the heating industry. In this respect, the Building Modernization Act falls far short of the expectations of workers and the industry.

Our demands are clear: a consistent approach to the building transition in order to achieve the 2045 climate target. The allocation of subsidies must be tied to value creation within the European Economic Area. Otherwise, we will be using taxpayer money to finance products from China and other regions. We view the installation of new gas heating systems critically, because the foreseeable rise in CO2 costs and uncertainty surrounding gas prices pose significant cost risks for consumers—and especially for renters.”

Nadine Boguslawski, Executive Board Member for Collective Bargaining and Skilled Trades at IG Metall: “The skilled trades sector and its workers are a key driver of a successful energy transition. Uncertainty is poison for the skilled trades. Companies and workers need political guidelines and clear funding conditions for innovation and investment. We expect clear priorities for sustainable solutions, such as heat pumps in particular. Energy-efficient retrofits of building envelopes and the expansion of smart power grids must not be lost sight of.

An open approach to technology must not lead to a lack of direction. If the government fails to set a course, the risks associated with the future will fall on businesses, and ultimately, employees will bear the consequences. A successful heating and energy transition requires skilled workers and good working conditions. Public funding must be tied to good working conditions and, consequently, to collective bargaining agreements.”

Further information and press photos of Jürgen Kerner

Further information and press photos of Nadine Boguslawski