Heat pumps in Freiburg im Breisgau
Heat pumps in Freiburg at a glance
Freiburg adopted a "Masterplan Wärme" as its municipal heating plan as early as 2021, well before the statutory deadline. The plan provides for around 50 per cent of heating demand to be met through district heating in the long term. badenova supplies the city with electricity, gas and district heating. The Freiburg Süd and West district heating networks are being expanded, while heat pumps are suitable in decentralised areas.
See also: Nationwide basics. KfW 458, GEG and technical minimum requirements apply in Freiburg without restriction.
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Funding in Freiburg
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| KfW 458 (federal funding) | active |
| Baden-Württemberg funding | Klimaschutz-Plus expired (15.7.2025) |
| badenova advice | free |
| KEA-BW advice | free |
Details on KfW 458 are available in the Nationwide basics. Baden-Württemberg does not currently provide direct funding for heat pumps for private individuals.
Application process and responsible bodies
Lower water authority of the City of Freiburg
Based at the Umweltamt. Approves geothermal probes and groundwater heat pumps.
badenova
Provider of electricity, gas and district heating. Offers advice and district heating networks.
KEA-BW
State Centre for Energy, Mobility and Raw Materials Baden-Württemberg. Provides free advice.
Status of municipal heating planning
| Step | Date |
|---|---|
| Masterplan Wärme (municipal heating planning) adopted | 2021 (before the statutory deadline) |
| Süd and West district heating networks being expanded | ongoing, 2024–2026 |
Freiburg adopted its heating plan as early as 2021, well before the deadline under the Baden-Württemberg climate protection law, 31 December 2023 for urban districts, and before the federal deadline. The city is currently expanding its district heating networks in specific districts.
Local features
Freiburg is expanding the Süd and West district heating networks. The Masterplan Wärme defines areas for heat pumps and district heating. In decentralised urban areas, heat pumps are economically viable. Freiburg is a pioneer of the heating transition with a clear decarbonisation target.
Frequently asked questions
What funding applies to my heat pump in Freiburg?
Primarily the federal funding KfW 458. Baden-Württemberg's Klimaschutz-Plus ended in 15 July 2025.
Who approves a geothermal probe in Freiburg?
The lower water authority approves probes. Note the ISONG requirements, maximum depth 400 metres.
Does Freiburg have a heating plan?
Yes. Freiburg adopted a "Masterplan Wärme" as its municipal heating plan as early as 2021, well before the statutory deadline. The Süd and West district heating networks are currently being further expanded.