Energy Transition in Valais
What's new in the energy sector 2025
As of January 1st, 2025, the new cantonal energy law and its implementing ordinance come into effect, introducing new requirements for buildings. This reform aims to reduce energy consumption, promote the use of renewable energy, and improve the thermal efficiency of buildings.
Property owners, builders, and investors — here’s what you need to know to adapt your real estate projects:
STRONGER STANDARDS FOR NEW CONSTRUCTIONS
All new buildings must now be designed to minimize energy needs and use only renewable energy sources for heating. This means an end to oil and gas heating in new buildings, replaced by heat pumps, wood heating systems, or district heating networks powered by renewable energy.
Another key change: all new buildings must produce a portion of the electricity they consume - photovoltaic solar panels.
EXISTING BUILDINGS: GRADUAL TRANSITION
For existing buildings, the transition will be gradual, but certain changes are mandatory:
- Oil and gas boiler replacements: When an existing fossil fuel heating system reaches the end of its life, it must be replaced with a renewable energy solution. However, if the building is well insulated, installing a new fossil fuel boiler may still be allowed.
- Centralized electric heating systems must be replaced with more eco-friendly systems by 2040.
- Decentralized electric heating systems (e.g., individual heaters): Replacement is not mandatory, but any new installations must meet certain conditions — such as good energy performance of the building or on-site winter electricity production.
- Roof renovations = mandatory solar panels: When a roof is uncovered for renovation, a solar installation (to produce electricity or heat) must be installed.
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE UNTIL 2030
To support this transition, the Canton of Valais offers a comprehensive subsidy program covering part of the costs associated with energy-efficient renovations. These grants are in addition to tax deductions and energy bill savings, and it should make the investment financially attractive in the medium term.
Cantonal subsidies are guaranteed until at least December 31st, 2030.
STANDARDIZED SOLUTIONS TO SIMPLIFY PROCEDURES
For construction or renovation projects, pre-approved energy solutions are now available. These models make it easier to comply when submitting building permit applications and help optimize energy performance without requiring complex calculations.
In cases of financial difficulty, an exemption request may be submitted if the investment is considered excessive.
A FRAMEWORK TO PLAN AHEAD
The new rules apply to all projects submitted for approval after January 1st, 2025. It is therefore highly recommended to integrate these requirements into your construction or renovation plans now, to avoid future administrative and financial complications.
USEFUL LINKS
- Cantonal Energy Law (LcEne) and its Ordinance (OcEne): These official documents detail the legal requirements effective from January 1st, 2025.
- Cantonal Energy Law (LcEne) – September 8, 2023
- Ordinance on Energy (OcEne) – March 20, 2024
- Financial aid for energy renovation: The Canton of Valais offers subsidies to support energy-efficient renovations. Conditions and application procedures are explained in detail.
- Promotion Programs / Financial Aid – vs.ch
- Cantonal Building Energy Certificate (CECB): Required in some cases, the CECB assesses the energy performance of buildings and is essential for certain legal procedures.
- CECB – vs.ch
