Isolating a roof, renovating a facade, replacing a fossil heating system, or installing solar panels represents a significant investment. However, these works reduce energy needs, improve comfort, and preserve the value of the property.
In Switzerland, assistance varies by canton, municipality, building, and the performance achieved. The same intervention may therefore receive different support from one region to another. To maintain eligibility, it is essential to inquire before ordering or starting the work.
The Building Program
The Building Program is the main public incentive scheme. Funded by the Confederation and implemented by the cantons, it supports works that reduce energy consumption and CO₂ emissions.
Depending on the canton, a contribution may be granted for:
- Insulating the facade, roof, walls, or floors;
- Replacing an oil, gas, or direct electric heating system;
- Installing a heat pump or wood heating system;
- Connecting to a thermal network;
- A comprehensive energy renovation;
- Achieving a standard such as Minergie.
The amounts and technical requirements are set by each canton. The application generally must be submitted and accepted before the start of the work. A commitment made too early may result in the loss of the grant.
The CECB Plus to Define Priorities
The Cantonal Energy Certificate for Buildings assesses the efficiency of the envelope, overall energy performance, and direct CO₂ emissions. The CECB Plus adds a consultancy report presenting several renovation scenarios, their estimated costs, and potential savings.
It helps determine whether to start with the roof, facades, windows, or heating. Some cantons and municipalities participate in its funding. It can also be requested to benefit from assistance related to a comprehensive renovation.
Heating and Solar Assistance
Replacing a fossil heating system can be supported when it is replaced by a renewable solution, such as a heat pump, wood heating, or connection to a heat network. The "Renewable Heating" advice helps choose a system suitable for the property and avoid improperly sized equipment.
It is often relevant to improve insulation before replacing heating: a less energy-consuming building requires a less powerful system.
For photovoltaics, a national one-time payment may be granted based on the power and type of installation. Cantons, municipalities, or energy suppliers sometimes offer additional assistance for panels, batteries, or preliminary studies.
Tax Deductions and Local Assistance
Expenses aimed at saving energy or protecting the environment can, under certain conditions, be deducted from taxable income. The treatment depends on the nature of the work and cantonal rules. Grants received generally must be taken into account in the calculation of the deductible expense.
Some municipalities and energy supply companies also offer bonuses for energy consulting, insulation, solar, or heating replacement. As budgets can change, always check the conditions with the relevant organization.
How to finance the remaining costs?
Subsidies only cover part of the investment. The balance can be financed through personal funds, by increasing the mortgage, or through a bank offer dedicated to renovation. To compare the solutions, consider the initial cost, grants, expected annual savings, and the lifespan of the equipment.
Steps to follow
- Contact the energy service of the canton;
- Have a diagnosis carried out, including a CECB Plus if necessary;
- Define the program and request detailed offers;
- Submit grant applications before the work begins;
- Wait for the decision, then organize the site;
- Submit the supporting documents to obtain the payment.
Why choose Avenir Rénovations Suisse?
Avenir Rénovations Suisse assists you in the study, estimation, and coordination of your renovation. Your Project Manager remains your sole contact until the completion of the site.
As grants are awarded by the competent authorities, their approval cannot be guaranteed. However, thorough preparation allows for compliance with procedures and the construction of a realistic budget.
