The state is really putting money on the table in 2026, and you can get up to 70% of your heat pump costs gifted. Sounds too good to be true? It isn't. KfW 270 (formerly BEG EM) is the central funding program for heating systems. Here you'll learn exactly how much money you get, who can participate, and how to submit the application correctly, no bureaucratic German, just clear facts with a wink.
KfW 270 is the central funding program of KfW Bank for heating replacement. From 2026, there's up to 70% grant for installing a heat pump. You don't have to pay the money back and there's no credit trap, it's simply a direct grant into your account. The clou: Depending on model and situation, three bonuses stack on top of each other.
| Bonus | Amount | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Basis bonus | 30% | For every new heat pump (air, ground, water) |
| Replacement bonus | + 20% | You're replacing an old gas or oil heating |
| Efficiency bonus | + 20% | Your heat pump has a JAZ of at least 4.0 |
| Total | up to 70% | All bonuses combined |
Example: You install a modern air-water heat pump for €25,000 and meet all conditions. → 70% funding = €17,500 grant → You only pay €7,500 yourself.
Maximum €30,000 per residential unit is eligible for funding. Everything above that (e.g., expensive special requests), you have to cover yourself. But for a normal single-family home, the limit is usually more than sufficient.
The application must be submitted to KfW BEFORE construction begins.
BAFA no longer does heating funding from 2026, everything runs through KfW now.
Your heating installer usually helps you with the application (many even do it free of charge).
Everything runs digitally via the "My KfW" portal, you just need an account and your specialist company's documents.
Tip: Don't wait too long. Although the funding pots are well-filled, first come, first served.
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Open free calculator now →The biggest mistake costs real money: if you order your heat pump or start the installation before the application is filed with KfW, you lose your claim to funding. The application must be submitted before construction starts, no exceptions. The same applies to any advance invoice, because that also counts as commissioning.
The second classic: leaving bonuses on the table. The 20% replacement bonus only applies if you can prove you are replacing an old gas or oil heating system. The 20% efficiency bonus requires a JAZ of at least 4.0, which you can usually reach easily with a high-quality model and a proper heating load calculation. Take both with you and you are at 70% instead of 30%, saving up to 12,000 EUR more grant on 30,000 EUR of eligible costs.
❓ Do I really get up to 70%?
Yes, if you meet all three bonuses (basis + replacement + efficiency). Most modern heat pumps easily achieve this.
❓ Does the funding also apply to old buildings?
Absolutely! Especially when replacing an old oil or gas heating in an old building, you get the full replacement bonus. Combined with some insulation, it becomes even more efficient.
❓ Do I have to take out a loan?
No. KfW 270 is a pure grant, no loan, no interest, no stress.
❓ What happens if I submit the application too late?
Unfortunately, nothing. Without a prior application, there's no funding. Therefore: Plan first, then submit application, then start construction.