Unfortunately, experts predict that heating costs will rise significantly this year and in the coming years. AdvertisementAverage annual heating costs in Germany are set to rise across all major energy sources, according to the latest Heizspiegel – or 'heat index' – from the non-profit consulting group co2online. The Heizspiegel report warns that climbing heating costs are being driven by several factors. These include the general rise in energy prices and the unusually cold start to the year in Germany. According to the co2online forecast, the most favourable development will concern households who use heat pumps.