Energy: Sustainable renovation or still too high a bill?
Hi, this is Claude. Sustainable renovations often reduce energy bills by between €200 and €500 per year, but they require a comprehensive approach to truly lighten your budget while improving comfort. This involves focusing on a combination of thermal insulation, eco-friendly heating, and energy efficiency, while also maximizing available financial assistance.
To do immediately
- Measure your current consumption via Linky or Gazpar before work begins.
- Opt for a complete renovation rather than an isolated action.
- Avoid raising the thermostat after renovations to prevent losing savings.
- Have your heating system serviced after renovation so that it works optimally.
- Uses durable materials to ensure a healthy and efficient renovation.
To succeed in your energy renovationIt is crucial to know the actual results observed. A complete renovation carried out as part of the Climate Plan in Paris resulted in an average reduction in consumption of 28%, representing annual savings of between €200 and €450 depending on the type of housing (APUR, 2024). Discover the real impact on your bill and how to avoid disappointment. More information on sustainable renovation and its benefits.
Why does your bill often remain too high despite the work done?
Insulation alone offers limited savings: approximately 5 to 9% reduction in energy consumption, depending on whether you heat with gas or electricity. However, many people mistakenly believe that replacing a window or insulating a wall is enough to cut their bill in half. The gap between marketing claims and reality is explained by several factors. First, the rebound effect: after renovations, there’s a tendency to turn up the thermostat because thermal comfort is improved, thus reducing the actual savings. Second, the quality of the work varies. Poorly addressed thermal bridges unnecessarily increase your bill. Finally, simulation tools often overestimate savings by not taking into account your actual lifestyle or the initial condition of your home.
An anecdote that speaks volumes
A couple in a 1970s house in Paris decorated their interior after renovation, enjoying the comfort. They unknowingly raised their thermostat from 18 to 21°C, thus reducing their heating savings by approximately 30%.
How to successfully renovate your energy bills and really reduce them
The key is a complete renovation:
- Choose durable and suitable insulating materials to avoid costly maintenance.
- Hire qualified professionals to minimize defects and thermal bridges.
- Plan a precise adjustment of your heating system after the work is completed.
If you live in an apartment, note that your options are more limited and often depend on decisions made by the condominium association. Understanding the issues in a collective setting This will help you better target your actions. If you live at home, every item is accessible, and that’s where the savings are greatest.
| Type of work | Actual decrease in consumption | Estimated annual savings |
|---|---|---|
| Insulation only (electricity) | ~5.4% | ~100 € |
| Insulation only (gas) | ~8.9% | ~€140 |
| Complete renovation (social housing, Paris) | ~28% | €200 to €450 |
| Heat pump installation (after insulation) | On average, double the insulation gain | Variable depending on size and use |
Simple 3-step procedure for an effective renovation
- Assess : Conduct a precise energy audit and record your actual consumption using Linky or Gazpar.
- To prioritize : plan a comprehensive renovation: insulation, eco-friendly heating and ventilation.
- To optimise : Have your heating system adjusted after the work is completed and do not touch the thermostat.
As one expert said: “Improving a sustainable building is not just about insulating the walls, it’s about thinking about its daily use to make energy savings sustainable”.
Good practices to avoid
- Don’t choose insulation materials based solely on price; they must be durable.
- Don’t attempt partial insulation without considering ventilation.
- Do not neglect the importance of post-work monitoring to check for the absence of thermal bridges.
- Avoid turning up the heating, otherwise your savings will go up in smoke.
- Don’t rush into it without taking advantage of available financial assistance; it can cover more than 40% of the cost.
A well-executed renovation contributes to the energy transition and eliminates the threat of excessive bills, while increasing the value of your property.
Is a complete renovation always profitable?
Profitability often varies, but in general, a complete renovation offers savings of €200 to €500 per year, which is modest financially but improves comfort and property value.
Why are my savings lower than expected?
The rebound effect, the quality of the work and the simplified calculation models explain why the actual gains are often lower than the estimates.
What materials should be prioritized for durable insulation?
Opt for eco-friendly and durable insulation, compatible with your region and properly installed to avoid thermal bridges.
How can I obtain financial assistance for my renovation?
MaPrimeRénov’, energy saving certificates (CEE) and local aid can cover up to 60% of the cost, especially for low-income households.
Is insulation alone enough to reduce my bill?
No, insulation alone often provides less than 10% savings; it must be combined with efficient heating and good ventilation.
Thank you for your interest; Claude
