German Energy Saving Ordinance (EnEV)

The EnEV has been mandatory for building owners and those involved in construction since 1 May 2014. It combines the former Thermal Insulation Ordinance and the previously applicable Heating Systems Ordinance and sets requirements for energy-efficient construction. The legal basis of the EnEV is the Energy Saving Act (EnEG).

The most recent edition of the EnEV from 2014 stipulates which standard building requirements developers must meet in order to achieve an efficient operational energy demand for the building.

For new builds, energy demand is reduced by around 30% compared with today's standard - which means that the so-called low-energy house standard will be the rule in future. An energy performance certificate is provided as evidence, significantly improving transparency in particular for building owners, tenants and the property market.

Several factors are decisive for saving energy in the home. When buying a window, you should pay attention to the following properties, among others, namely U-value, insulation and glazing.