The GEIG law in Germany, officially known as the Building eMobility Infrastructure Act (Gebäude-Elektromobilitätsinfrastruktur-Gesetz), is a crucial piece of legislation that requires the expansion of buildings' power and charging infrastructure. Enforced since March 25, 2021, this law ensures that eMobility is factored into construction planning from the very beginning, paving the way for a more electrified future in Germany.
Purpose and Background of the GEIG Law
The primary objective of the GEIG law is to accelerate the transition to electric mobility by making it easier and more convenient to charge electric vehicles. It directly implements European Directive (EU) 2018/844, which amends the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). This legislative push reflects Germany's commitment to climate protection goals and the broader European strategy to reduce CO2 emissions from the transport sector.
Key drivers behind the GEIG law include:
- Promoting Electric Mobility: By ensuring charging infrastructure is readily available, the law removes a significant barrier to EV adoption.
- Future-Proofing Buildings: It mandates that new and significantly renovated buildings are equipped to meet future eMobility demands.
- Climate Protection: Supporting the shift from fossil-fuel vehicles to electric cars contributes to Germany's emission reduction targets.
- Standardization: It provides clear regulations for developers and building owners, fostering a consistent approach to charging infrastructure development.
Key Requirements of the GEIG Law
The GEIG law establishes specific requirements for the installation of charging infrastructure and pre-cabling in both new constructions and existing buildings undergoing major renovations. These requirements vary based on the type and size of the building.
New Buildings
- New Non-Residential Buildings (with more than six parking spaces):
- Must be equipped with at least one charging point.
- Pre-cabling (empty conduits for electric cables) must be installed for at least one in every five parking spaces.
- New Residential Buildings (with more than three parking spaces):
- Pre-cabling must be installed in all parking spaces, allowing for future installation of charging points.
Existing Buildings (Major Renovations)
The law also addresses significant renovation projects to ensure older buildings are updated to meet eMobility standards. A "major renovation" typically refers to works affecting more than 25% of the building's outer surface.
- Existing Non-Residential Buildings (with more than 20 parking spaces) undergoing major renovation:
- Must be equipped with at least one charging point.
- Pre-cabling must be installed for at least one in every five parking spaces. These requirements must be met by January 1, 2025.
- Existing Residential Buildings (with more than ten parking spaces) undergoing major renovation:
- Pre-cabling must be installed in all parking spaces.
Exemptions and Specific Cases
The GEIG law includes certain exemptions to prevent disproportionate burdens:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Exemptions may apply if the costs for the installation of charging infrastructure or pre-cabling exceed 7% of the total costs of a major renovation.
- Public Buildings: Specific provisions apply to public buildings, often requiring a higher density of charging points.
- Small Buildings: Buildings with a very limited number of parking spaces may be exempt from certain requirements.
Who is Affected by GEIG?
The GEIG law has broad implications across the German construction and real estate sectors:
- Building Owners and Developers: They must integrate eMobility infrastructure into their planning and construction processes.
- Architects and Planners: Need to consider the law's requirements from the initial design phase.
- Construction Companies: Are responsible for implementing the required infrastructure during building projects.
- Property Managers: May need to manage the installation and operation of charging points in existing properties.
- Electricians and Installers: Benefit from increased demand for their services related to EV charging infrastructure.
Practical Implications and Benefits
The GEIG law marks a significant shift in how buildings are designed and equipped in Germany, offering several practical benefits:
- Seamless Integration: By mandating eMobility considerations from the start, the law ensures that charging infrastructure is not an afterthought but an integral part of modern building design.
- Reduced Future Costs: Installing pre-cabling during construction is significantly more cost-effective than retrofitting it later.
- Enhanced Property Value: Buildings equipped with EV charging infrastructure are more attractive to tenants and buyers, increasing their market value and future-proofing the investment.
- User Convenience: Accessible charging solutions make electric vehicles a more viable option for residents and employees, supporting sustainable commuting.
- Support for the Energy Transition: It contributes directly to the broader goals of energy transition and decarbonization by supporting the uptake of electric vehicles.
Overview of GEIG Requirements
| Building Type | Scenario | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Residential | New (more than 6 parking spaces) | At least one charging point; pre-cabling for 1 in every 5 parking spaces. |
| Non-Residential | Existing (more than 20 parking spaces), major renovation | At least one charging point; pre-cabling for 1 in every 5 parking spaces (by Jan 1, 2025). |
| Residential | New (more than 3 parking spaces) | Pre-cabling in all parking spaces. |
| Residential | Existing (more than 10 parking spaces), major renovation | Pre-cabling in all parking spaces. |
Further Information and Resources
For detailed legal texts and official interpretations of the GEIG law, you can refer to:
- The official German legal information system: Gesetze im Internet - Gebäude-Elektromobilitätsinfrastruktur-Gesetz (GEIG)
- Information from the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) (search for GEIG or eMobility infrastructure).
