Hybrid heating systems combine an air-to-water heat pump with a gas condensing boiler and are discussed as an alternative to purely electric heat pumps. This analysis by the Institute of Energy Economics at the University of Cologne (EWI) evaluates different heating systems regarding heating costs, emissions, and infrastructure costs for various building types over the period from 2025 to 2045. It also considers uncertainties in CO₂ prices as well as electricity and gas grid fees.
The findings of the analysis “Assessment of Heat Pumps and Hybrid Heating Systems Based on GHG Emissions, Heating and Infrastructure Costs” show that none of the investigated technologies is superior in all aspects. While heat pumps with a heating rod cause lower emissions in the buildings studied, hybrid heating systems could be cost-effective in unrenovated neighborhoods if they lead to savings in grid expansion. Hybrid heating systems appear less relevant in areas where most buildings have been renovated or are newly built. As a result, the choice of heating technology requires balancing heating costs, infrastructure costs, and climate protection on a case-by-case basis.
