In 2025, Europe is making a significant shift toward greener energy. The goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2035-2040, as part of the European Union’s Sustainable Development Agenda 2030 and the Paris Agreement. One of the main changes will affect households, marking the beginning of the end for fossil fuel boilers, gas, coal, and oil-based systems.

Why the Change Is Happening

According to the European Commission, buildings in EU member states are responsible for 40% of total energy consumption and contribute 36% of greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, the construction and building sector has become a key focus for the EU’s efforts to decarbonize the economy.

Who Will Be Affected?

If you currently have a gas, coal, or oil boiler in your home, you don’t need to worry. Your boiler will continue to work as usual, but the EU is introducing a gradual phase-out. From January 2025, there will no longer be financial incentives for replacing these fossil fuel systems, even with newer, more efficient models like condensation boilers. When your boiler breaks down, you’ll need to switch to a more modern and sustainable heating system instead.

What Are the Alternatives?

The European Union is promoting renewable technologies like heat pumps and solar thermal systems. These systems will receive financial support, particularly hybrid systems combining traditional boilers with renewable technologies.

Upcoming Changes in the Coming Years

By 2028, all buildings occupied or owned by public entities must be climate-neutral, meaning they must produce no carbon emissions throughout their lifecycle, including during construction and demolition.

For new buildings, a 2030 deadline is in place, after which they must have sustainable heating systems. This will ban the installation of gas boilers in new constructions, pushing the adoption of renewable technologies like aerothermal systems.

The Long-Term Goal: Zero Gas Boilers by 2040

By 2040, all gas boilers should be gone from buildings across Europe. Member states will need to replace them with alternatives, ensuring a full transition to a decarbonized energy system.

In 2025, we are witnessing the beginning of the end for gas boilers in Spain, as the EU’s long-term regulations begin to take effect.