CERTIFIED GREEN GERMAN HOUSE

What seems especially interesting about this standard-setting is that it would help the buyer know so much more about the building being sold, a really good thing.

Germany proposes energy efficient labels for homes
Tom Armitage, April 20, 2007 (Reuters)
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WHO
The current German government, Chancellor Angela Merkel’s coalition cabinet, Transport, Building and Urban Affairs Minister Wolfgang Tiefensee, Environment Minister Sigmar Gabriel, Economy Minister Michael Glos

WHAT
Germany proposes a mandatory labeling of buildings, identifying their level of energy efficiency. European Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs approved.

WHEN
Proposals would be enacted by the end of 2007 and toughened in 2008. The European Union’s stated goal is a 20% reduction of residential and transportation energy use by 2020.

WHERE
Germany first, then Europe.

WHY
- Prospective buyers would know exactly what they are and are not getting in terms of energy costs. Energy certificates would detail things like the cost of heating and hot water. Energy efficiency means greenhouse gas emission reductions.
- Opponents of Merkel’s government complain that measures are aimed at consumers, not business and industry.
- A strong disagreement on nuclear energy remains in the coalition government and among EU nations.

QUOTES
- Tiefensee: “In future, property ads might say not just 'balcony, two rooms, quiet area' but also mention its energy efficiency…"
- Glos: "In the current coalition there is no parliamentary majority to change the decision we have taken (to pull out of nuclear power)…But in light of climate change, nuclear power should be considered again as an interim solution."