Heat Pump vs Gas Heating 2026
20-year cost comparison: Which heating system pays off for you?
Find Cheap Heat Pump Electricity
20-Year Cost Comparison
| Cost Type | Heat Pump | Gas Heating |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase (incl. installation) | 20,000 EUR | 10,000 EUR |
| - Subsidy (50%) | -10,000 EUR | 0 EUR |
| = Net System Cost | 10,000 EUR | 10,000 EUR |
| Energy costs per year* | 1,200 EUR | 2,000 EUR |
| Energy costs 20 years** | 28,000 EUR | 50,000 EUR |
| Maintenance 20 years | 3,000 EUR | 4,000 EUR |
| TOTAL COST 20 Years | 41,000 EUR | 64,000 EUR |
| Savings with Heat Pump | 23,000 EUR | |
* Assumptions: Single-family home 150m2, 20,000 kWh heat demand, Heat pump COP 3.5, Electricity 28 ct/kWh, Gas 12 ct/kWh
** With estimated 3% annual price increase and rising CO2 price
Advantages and Disadvantages
Heat Pump
Advantages
- Low running costs
- High subsidies (up to 70%)
- Independent of gas prices
- Climate-friendly
- Property value increase
Disadvantages
- High purchase costs
- Check old building suitability
- Outdoor unit visible
- Electricity dependent
Gas Heating
Advantages
- Low purchase cost
- Proven technology
- Suitable for old buildings
- Compact design
Disadvantages
- Rising CO2 costs
- Gas price risk
- No more subsidies
- Phase-out model (65% rule)
- Fossil fuel dependency
Heat Pump Subsidies 2026
30%
Basic Subsidy
For all heat pumps
+20%
Climate Bonus
When replacing old heating
+20%
Income Bonus
Income under 40,000 EUR
Maximum 70% subsidy on eligible costs up to 30,000 EUR = up to 21,000 EUR
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gas heating still allowed in 2026?
Yes, existing gas heating systems can continue to operate. Since 2024, new heating systems must use 65% renewable energy - a pure gas heater is no longer permitted in new buildings. Exceptions apply for existing buildings.
How much does a heat pump cost in 2026?
An air-to-water heat pump costs 15,000-25,000 euros including installation. After deducting subsidies (up to 70%), often only 8,000-15,000 euros remain. Ground source heat pumps are more expensive (25,000-40,000 euros).
What subsidies are available for heat pumps?
The BEG subsidy is up to 70%: 30% basic subsidy + 20% climate speed bonus (when replacing old heating) + 20% income bonus (household income under 40,000 euros). Maximum subsidy: 21,000 euros.
How high is the CO2 price for gas in 2026?
The CO2 price is 55 euros/ton in 2026. This increases gas prices by about 1.1 cent/kWh. For 20,000 kWh annual consumption, that's around 220 euros more per year - and rising.
When is a heat pump worth it?
A heat pump is particularly worthwhile for well-insulated houses, underfloor heating, cheap electricity tariffs, and when the old heating needs replacing anyway. For poorly insulated old buildings with radiators, a check is needed.