A step forward in the energy transition
For anyone interested in installing a heat pump system, there's good news! The process is now much easier: all you have to do is fill in a notification form, provide a site plan and the technical data sheet for the system, and send it to the relevant commune. It will then be up to the local authorities to assess the application and, on a case-by-case basis, grant exemption from the building permit requirement. If the conditions are not met, the building permit application process will still be available.
RENEWABLE ENERGIES
The Canton of Vaud has taken an important step towards promoting renewable energies and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, offering sustainable solutions to the challenge of climate change. The revision of regulations for the installation of air-to-air or air-to-water heat pumps in the canton has finally been validated by the Constitutional Court (CCST), paving the way for significant improvements in the installation procedure for these innovative technologies.
In June 2023, the Conseil d'État adopted a revision of the implementing regulations for the Town Planning and Construction Act (RLATC) and the Energy Act (RLVLEne), with the aim of simplifying the procedure for installing air-to-water or air-to-air heat pumps in the canton. This revision, previously blocked by legal disputes, was finally approved by the CCST in its ruling of January 12, 2024, thus guaranteeing the effective implementation of the new regulations.
ADMINISTRATIVE SIMPLIFICATION
Article 68c of the RLATC, in particular, represents a significant step towards administrative simplification, exempting the installation of heat pumps for the production of heating and domestic hot water in existing buildings from the construction permit requirement. This exemption also extends to the exterior of existing buildings, provided that the heat pump is harmoniously integrated into the structure and meets certain criteria, such as volume and noise level.
Building permit applications relating exclusively to the installation of heat pumps, which are currently being processed by the cantonal authorities, will continue to be handled according to existing procedures, at no additional cost to applicants.
This important development not only reduces the administrative burden for citizens, but also shortens project implementation times, encouraging greater adoption of sustainable energy technologies. In addition, building permit applications relating exclusively to the installation of heat pumps will no longer be subject to charges by the Canton, unless charges have already been incurred for publication in the Feuille des avis officiels.
SUBSIDIES FOR HEAT PUMPS
Here's a quick overview of Subsidies which can be requested for the installation of a heat pump.
M05: Air-to-water heat pump
The M05 grant is intended for the installation of air-to-water heat pumps to replace oil, natural gas or fixed electric resistance heating systems. The following amounts are available for replacements:
- Replacement of a gas or oil-fired boiler: CHF 5,000. for single-family homes or with an output ≤ 15 kW, CHF 400/kW for other purposes and with an output > 15 kW.
- Replacement of electric heating: CHF 7,500 or CHF 600/kW.
If a new hydraulic distribution system is created, CHF 10,000 is allocated.
- for single-family homes (between 100 and 400 m2) or CHF 500/kW for other uses.
Conditions to qualify for the grant include the use of heat pumps with electric motors as the main heating system, the replacement of fossil fuel or fixed electric resistance heating systems, the installation of a modulating system for efficient heat pumps for outputs ≤ 15 kW, and the supply of domestic hot water during the heating period by the heat pump or other renewable energies.
Compliance with regulations for the creation of a new hydraulic distribution system, including regulations on insulation and room-by-room heating control, is also required. The total output of the heat pump's electric heating elements must not exceed 50% of its rated output. Finally, the building must meet a certain energy efficiency class, and the Swiss cantonal energy certificate(CECB et CECB+) must be updated after the work has been completed.
M06: Ground/water or water/water heat pump
This subsidy is intended for the installation of ground/water or water/water heat pumps to replace a main oil, natural gas or electric heating system with fixed resistance. The amounts awarded vary according to the type of replacement:
- Replacement of a gas or oil-fired boiler: CHF 25,000.
- Replacement of electric heating: CHF 25,000, or CHF 5,000 + CHF 1,000/kW for outputs below 20 kW, CHF 20,000, or CHF 4,000 + CHF 800/kW for outputs above 20 kW and CHF 100,000, or CHF 320/kW for outputs above 200 kW.
If a new hydraulic distribution system is created, CHF 10,000 is allocated.
- for single-family homes (between 100 and 400 m2) or CHF 500/kW for other uses.
Conditions to qualify for the grant include the use of heat pumps with electric motors as the main heating system, the replacement of fossil fuel or electric heating systems with fixed resistance, the installation of a modulating system for efficient heat pumps with outputs of 15 kW or more, and the supply of domestic hot water during the heating period via the heat pump or other renewable energy sources.
Compliance with regulations for the creation of a new hydraulic distribution system, including regulations on insulation and room-by-room heating control, is also required. The total output of the heat pump's electric heating elements must not exceed 50% of its rated output. Finally, the building must meet a certain energy efficiency class, and the Swiss cantonal energy certificate(CECB et CECB+) must be updated after the work has been completed.
WE TAKE CARE OF EVERYTHING, WITH ABSOLUTE CERTAINTY
For your renovation project, we not only mobilize all our best resources, but also ensure that you invest fully in the future of your home, building or business with a clear conscience. We don't just offer products, we provide complete, fully satisfying solutions that enhance your living or working environment.
With our extensive experience in renewable energies, we are committed to putting your needs and well-being first, respecting their uniqueness and specificity. You'll benefit from the full support of a team of experts every step of the way. What's more, as members of the GPS Groupement Suisse des pompes à chaleur, we offer neutral, independent advice, guaranteeing the highest level of service quality.
Not only do we turn your ideas into concrete projects, we also make sure you choose the best technologies available on the market. Our team of experts will guide you safely through the maze of options in the world of renewable energies. We'll find not only high-quality, high-performance products for your renovation project, but also customized solutions that perfectly match your budget and preferences.
We'll be with you every step of the way, confidently guiding your investment towards a sustainable, quality future. Contact us today for a comprehensive, attentive and personalized service that will help you achieve your energy goals with confidence.
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For neutral, independent advice as a member of the GPS Swiss Heat Pump Association and as an engineering consultant.
Find out more
- CECB: cantonal energy certificate
- CECB Plus: certificate & advisory report
- AMOen: Energy project management assistance
For news Subsidies in the Canton of Vaud source: Bureau d'information et de communication de l'État de Vaud
