Climate Protection and the Environment in Potsdam: Focus on Decisions in January 2026

Climate Protection in Potsdam: Ambitions and Challenges in January 2026

In January 2026, numerous topics in the areas of environment and climate protection were in the focus in Potsdam. The city not only relied on symbolic actions such as Earth Hour, but also on concrete political decisions that influence everyday life. At the same time, critical questions were raised, for example about the reliability of the district heating supply or the implementation of the heat plan.

Earth Hour 2026: Symbolic Action with Broad Support

The parliamentary groups of BÜNDNIS 90/DIE GRÜNEN and Volt once again advocated for Potsdam to participate in Earth Hour 2026. The motto "We're Turning It Off!" is intended to draw attention to the climate crisis while also promoting solutions. The event, which traditionally takes place on March 26, is seen by the city as an important signal for climate protection. The support from the Greens and Volt shows that climate protection continues to play a central role in Potsdam.

Introduction of the Municipal Packaging Tax: A Step Toward Sustainability

Another milestone was the planned introduction of the municipal packaging tax on July 1, 2026. The goal of the tax is to reduce waste and limit the use of single-use packaging. The measure is accompanied by communication and participation campaigns, particularly aiming to involve the hospitality industry more closely. Support for the transition to reusable solutions is provided, while at the same time creating jobs for tax collection and related measures. The tax is part of a broader sustainability concept and is politically widely supported.

Challenges in District Heating Supply: Monopoly and Disruptions

A particularly critical topic was the district heating supply in Fahrland. The region is subject to a mandatory connection and usage obligation for district heating, with GETEC as a private supplier holding a monopoly. Frequent outages in the winter of 2025/26 led to complaints from residents. The disruptions are attributed to structural problems, and the city, as the public project owner, has the obligation to ensure the reliability of the supply. The discussion about GETEC and the quality of district heating supply is an example of the tensions between private business and public infrastructure provision.

Heat Planning and Gas Supply: Security for Property Owners

The heat plan, presented in December 2025, remains a central point in the climate debate. In the northern part of Potsdam, individual heating supply remains in place, and many households are still connected to the EWP gas grid. The inquiry regarding the guarantee period for gas supply by the municipal energy provider shows that property owners are seeking clarity and security. The 65-percent rule for hybrid heating systems from June 2026 is another step toward climate protection, but the implementation remains dependent on supply security.

Conclusion: Ambitious, but Facing Challenges

Potsdam has shown itself in January 2026 to be a city with clear climate protection ambitions. With measures such as the packaging tax and Earth Hour, the city is taking both symbolic and practical steps. At the same time, it also becomes evident that implementation is not always smooth – whether in the case of district heating supply or the transition to climate-friendly heating systems. The political debates around these issues show that climate protection in Potsdam remains both an opportunity and a challenge.