In a lively and often controversial debate held at ISH 2025, experts from housing, energy consulting, science, and practice came together to discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding sustainability, ESG criteria, and energy-efficient renovation.
One thing became clear: there are no simple answers – only diverse perspectives. The discussion focused on key questions, highly relevant in the German policy and regulatory context:
- Do we need more or less regulation?
- What role do certification systems play between large corporations and private property owners?
- How can we ensure planning security and practical guidance instead of bureaucracy and confusion?
- And: how can energy-efficient renovation be scaled across the market – technically, economically, and communicatively?
There was broad consensus that clear, stable policy frameworks, openness to technology, and trust in the German industry’s ability to deliver are essential. At the same time, it became evident: the ESG train has left the station – but not everyone in the German real estate and construction sectors is on board yet.
Curious to know why a mandatory "energy declaration" might make sense? How economic efficiency and climate action can go hand in hand? And what the sector is asking of the next German government? Then don’t miss this insightful, multi-perspective and refreshingly candid panel recording.
This panel was supported by FGK – Fachverband Gebäude-Klima e.V. (German Association for Building Climate Systems).
Moderation:
Günther Mertz, former Managing Director of BTGA, FGK, and the RLT Manufacturers’ Association
Panelists:
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michael Bauer, Partner and Managing Director, Drees & Sommer
Katja Böhmer, Board Member Operations, Engineering and Dr. Sasse AG
Stefan Bolln, Federal Chairman, GIH – German Association of Energy Consultants
Prof. Dr. Klaus Eschenbruch, Construction and Architects Law Attorney, Kapellmann and Partner
Ulrike Janssen, Managing Director for Technology and Energy, LEG Immobilien Group
Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil. Christoph van Treeck, Head of Institute, Chair of Energy Efficient Building, RWTH Aachen University
