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Emergency

District heating: connection and use obligation

Many municipalities prescribe connection to the district heating network to meet climate targets. This connection and use obligation is based on a municipal statute. It has limits, and in certain cases exemptions are possible.

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Your chances of getting your money back

A connection and use obligation for district heating is ordered by a municipal statute on the basis of state law. It must be justified by a public interest, for example climate or emission protection.
The statute can provide for exemption and exception grounds, for example in case of unreasonable hardship or with an especially efficient own supply. Against the connection notice one can proceed with an objection or a lawsuit.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Check the statute

    Look at the municipal statute and its exception and exemption rules.

  2. 2

    2. Check an exemption

    Clarify whether an exemption ground applies to your situation.

  3. 3

    3. File an application

    If applicable, apply for an exemption or exception with the municipality.

  4. 4

    4. Use a legal remedy

    Against the notice you can file an objection or a lawsuit in time.

How to spot the scam

  • A connection obligation is demanded without a recognizable statutory basis.
  • Exemption options are not examined.
  • The legal-remedy deadline against the notice passes.

Frequently asked questions

May the municipality prescribe a district heating connection?

Yes, through a connection and use obligation in a municipal statute based on state law. It must be justified by a public interest such as climate or emission protection. The concrete requirements result from the respective statute.

Can I have myself exempted from it?

Possibly. Many statutes provide for exception and exemption grounds, for example in case of unreasonable hardship or with an especially environmentally friendly and efficient own heating system. Check the statute and file a reasoned exemption application if applicable.

How do I fight the connection notice?

Against the notice you can file an objection within the deadline or bring a lawsuit. Check whether the statute is valid, the public interest carries it and exemption options exist. Observe the deadline stated in the legal-remedy instruction.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.