Renovating in Écublens: A practical guide for owners

6 °C. Heating needs are characterized by 2,759 annual heating degree days and about 48 frost days, highlighting the importance of a high-performance thermal envelope.5 °C, a crucial factor to incorporate when dimensioning your heating systems to ensure optimal comfort throughout the year.

Regarding energy, the town benefits from a global annual irradiation of 1,371 kWh/m². This data confirms the strong solar potential of the municipality, particularly for photovoltaic installations, which can reach an estimated output of 1,206 kWh/kWp per year for a south-facing roof.

6 °fH, supplied by the Lausanne Water Service, which requires particular attention regarding limescale in your sanitary installations.

The City of Écublens has adopted an ambitious climate plan aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050 and a 35% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 2020. As an owner, your priorities should focus on improving the thermal efficiency of your building.

The first step often consists of insulating facades and the roof to limit heat loss, which drastically reduces the energy needed for heating.

At the same time, replacing old windows with high-insulation performance models is highly recommended. These envelope renovation works are not only essential to meet municipal climate targets, but they also significantly improve the property value and interior thermal comfort.

By prioritizing these interventions, you actively contribute to the 'Energy City' approach adopted by Écublens while reducing your long-term energy bills.

Heating is a pillar of Écublens' energy strategy. For served areas, connecting to the ECUCAD district heating network is a major solution. This company, created by SIE and Romande Energie, has completed its production plant using wood, a renewable resource.

This network covers the municipalities of Écublens, Renens, and Chavannes-près-Renens, notably the Croset district and the industrial area. A connection obligation or priority may apply in these specific sectors.

If you cannot connect to the network, installing a heat pump (HP) is a preferred alternative. These modern systems allow for the advantageous replacement of fossil or electric installations.

For air-water or air-air HPs, it is crucial to consider noise pollution, as their installation is subject to the simplified building permit procedure. A preliminary site study is recommended to ensure compliance with current cantonal acoustic standards.

For the majority of renovation works, you will need to refer to Vaud procedures.

Works such as replacing windows or installing an insulating facade are generally subject to a simplified building permit procedure, or even exempt from a permit in cases where there is no change in exterior appearance, volume, or significant use.

However, these points should be verified with the municipality or the competent prefect.

If your building is protected or located in a heritage protection zone, the rules may be stricter, particularly regarding exterior appearance. The installation of solar panels benefits from a simplified framework, often being subject to a permit exemption or a very light procedure.

This administrative flexibility aims to encourage the energy transition while ensuring respectful architectural integration. It is highly recommended to open a dialogue with the municipal administration before any formal filing to secure your procedures.

Energy renovation is widely supported by the Vaud Canton and Confederation's Building Program. Subsidies are available for replacing fossil heating with a heat pump, thermal insulation of the envelope (facade, roof), and replacing windows as part of an overall renovation.

Aid is also granted for solar thermal installations, while photovoltaics benefit from a one-off payment via Pronovo, calculated according to the installation's power.

Tax-wise, the Vaud Canton offers incentives. You can deduct energy investment costs at 100% from your taxable income. If these costs cannot be fully deducted in the year of the investment, it is possible to carry over the balance to the two following tax periods.

Note, however, that it is impossible to combine the deduction of actual costs and the flat-rate deduction for the same tax period. The choice between these options should be carefully considered based on your personal situation.

Successful renovation in Écublens requires rigorous planning. Start with an energy audit to identify the most energy-intensive parts of your building. This step will allow you to prioritize works, such as facade insulation before changing the heating system, in order to optimize the latter's sizing.

Once the project is defined, submit your subsidy applications before starting work, as aid is generally granted subject to compliance with standards and a prior application.

The choice of companies is also decisive. Prioritize qualified professionals with confirmed experience in energy renovation. Do not hesitate to request several detailed quotes and check the providers' certifications.

Good communication with the selected companies, coupled with regular site monitoring, will ensure the works comply with local energy and heritage standards. Keep in mind that administrative anticipation remains the best way to avoid unforeseen delays in your renovation project.