Two in three Germans prepared to wear extra jumper to save gas in winter - survey

Two-thirds of Germans are willing to use an extra blanket or jumper to reduce their heating usage next winter, reveals a study conducted by polling firm forsa on behalf of the German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU). While 65 percent of respondents said they were prepared and able to take such measures, 31 percent said they were not. There were noticeable distinctions between different groups: women were more likely to consider taking such steps than men, and young adults more willing than older age groups. A very large majority (87 percent) said they considered improving buildings’ energy efficiency, for example through new windows, more energy efficient appliances and better insulation, “important” or “very important.”

When asked about which renewable technology they would consider when purchasing a new heating system, solar panels came out as the most popular option, with 62 percent of respondents keen to generate electricity from their own roof. Meanwhile, half said they would consider a heat pump. However, two thirds stated that attractive subsidies would be needed as an incentive.

Russia’s war against Ukraine has led to a surge in demand for renewable heating systems in Germany, fanning hopes the gas crisis could boost the energy transition in the heating sector. Last month, the German government revealed plans to install half a million heat pumps annually across households.