The CECB+ energy audit: an essential tool for obtaining renovation assistance in Switzerland

What is the CECB+?

The Cantonal Energy Certificate for Buildings (CECB) is an official document that assesses the energy consumption of a building and its impact on the environment.
The CECB+ is an enhanced version of this certificate: in addition to the diagnosis, it provides a personalized renovation plan with concrete improvement scenarios.

The CECB+ is recognized throughout Switzerland and harmonized across cantons. It serves as a reference for property owners, architects, businesses, and administrations.

The CECB+ report includes:

• An assessment of the current energy performance of the building,
• A classification (from A to G) of the efficiency of the envelope and overall consumption,
• Several step-by-step renovation proposals, with cost estimates and energy savings,
• A calculation of return on investment and CO₂ emission reductions.

Why is the CECB+ mandatory for renovation aid?

In most Swiss cantons, conducting a CECB+ energy audit is a prerequisite for obtaining public aid.
This diagnosis allows authorities to verify that the proposed project is coherent, effective, and compliant with energy standards.

Main reasons:

1. Technical justification for subsidies
   The CECB+ proves that the subsidized work (insulation, heating, windows, etc.) provides a real energy improvement.

2. Establishment of a priority renovation plan
   The audit identifies the most cost-effective interventions, allowing for optimization of the budget and available aid.

3. Monitoring performance after work
   Cantons can compare results before and after renovation, ensuring proper use of public funds.

4. National harmonization
   The CECB+ is recognized in all Romandy cantons, simplifying administrative procedures.

The different types of CECB audits

The CECB+ is therefore essential if you wish to undertake a subsidized energy renovation.

Cost and subsidies for conducting a CECB+

The realization of a CECB+ represents a moderate initial investment, quickly recouped by the aid it allows you to obtain.

Average cost:

• Between 900 and 1,500 CHF for a single-family home,
• Up to 3,000 CHF for a multi-family building.

Available subsidies:

• Many cantons partially subsidize the cost of the CECB+.
• The amount varies between 300 and 1,000 CHF, depending on the region and type of building.

Examples:

• Canton of Vaud: grant of up to 800 CHF for the realization of a CECB+.
• Canton of Fribourg: contribution of 500 CHF minimum.
• Canton of Valais: subsidy of 300 to 700 CHF depending on complexity.
• Canton of Neuchâtel: flat-rate aid of 600 CHF for residential buildings.

The diagnosis is therefore widely accessible and often largely reimbursed.

Process of a CECB+ energy audit

Step 1: Information gathering

The certified CECB advisor collects the building plans, technical data of the installations (heating, ventilation, insulation), and recent energy bills.

Step 2: Building visit

A complete on-site inspection is conducted: analysis of the thermal envelope, joinery, roof, heating, and ventilation systems.

Step 3: Evaluation and calculations

The specialist performs energy calculations using the official CECB software.
Consumption and losses are simulated according to different scenarios.

Step 4: Report writing

The final report contains:

• the current energy rating (A to G),
• the improvement proposals,
• the potential savings and necessary investments,
• a short, medium, and long-term renovation plan.

Step 5: Presentation to the owner

The advisor explains the results and the priorities to follow to maximize the return on the work and available aid.

Concrete example: CECB+ and energy renovation in Lausanne

Initial situation: House from 1985 heated with oil, old insulation, single glazing....