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Why almost nobody reaches 70%

Adding every component gives 85%. Payments stop at 70%, and most households fall short of that long before the cap matters.

Base grant
30%
+ Efficiency
35%
+ Speed
55%
+ Income
85 → 70%

Where the percentage points get lost

The income bonus needs taxable household income up to €40,000 and owner occupation. The speed bonus needs a qualifying old or fossil system replaced by the end of 2028, also with owner occupation. The efficiency bonus hangs on the technology: a natural refrigerant, or ground, water or wastewater heat.

A household on €55,000 with a newer gas boiler and a standard air source unit lands at 30%. That is the rate to plan with.

What installer adverts say

“Up to 70% funded” is accurate and still misleading when nobody has checked your case. Ask for the rate for your household, in writing, inside the quote.

Calculate your rate

Source: KfW programme 458, rates and conditions. Checked on 26 October 2026.