In the building sector, the federal government and cantons fund energy efficiency and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through two programmes: the federal and cantonal Buildings Programme and the federal impulse programme for the replacement of heat generation systems and energy efficiency measures. The two programmes work in tandem.
The federal and cantonal buildings programme
Since 2010, the Swiss federal and cantonal buildings programme has been promoting the energy-efficient renovation of buildings as well as renewable energies, waste heat recovery and the optimisation of building services technology. The buildings programme has made an important contribution to the fulfilment of Switzerland’s national climate goals.
The buildings programme is implemented where it will have the greatest impact: buildings are responsible for around one quarter of CO2 greenhouse gas emissions and 40% of energy consumption in Switzerland. People who renovate their properties efficiently can reduce their heating requirements and the associated CO2 emissions by over 50%. In this way, home owners not only benefit from significantly lower heating costs, they also increase the market value of their properties and contribute to active climate protection.
One third of the CO2 levy earmarked for the buildings programme
The CO2 Act provides the legal basis for the buildings programme. The CO2 levy on combustible fuels is enshrined in this legislation. Since 2010, one third of the proceeds from the CO2 levy – a maximum of CHF 450 million – have been used annually for the buildings programme and the promotion of geothermal energy. Unused funds are redistributed to the economy and population. The buildings programme is not subject to a time limit.
Contribution of the cantons
The funds for the buildings programme are paid to the cantons in the form of general financial aid. To qualify for receipt of the funding, the cantons must have a building envelope subsidy programme, which is based on the cantons’ harmonised funding model (HFM 2015).
Joint effort by the Confederation and cantons
The buildings programme was developed jointly by the cantons and the Confederation – represented by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) and the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN). The Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) is responsible for the strategic management of the programme and the cantons are responsible for its implementation.
Information on the Buildings Programme with application forms and funding rates (in German, French or Italian).
The impulse programme
As a supplement to the Buildings Programme, the impulse programme for the replacement of heat generation systems and energy efficiency measures has been in force since 1 January 2025. It was introduced as part of the Climate and Innovation Act, and the legal basis is the Energy Act. Over ten years, a total of CHF 2 billion will be available for the replacement of fossil-fuel and electric heating systems and for measures to increase energy efficiency. The funds for this will come from the federal budget.
Targeted supplement to the Buildings Programme
The impulse programme supplements the Buildings Programme, providing support wherever current cantonal funding is still not effective enough. This applies in particular to larger properties and apartment buildings. The programme also focuses on replacing electric resistance heating systems, which are often inefficient and use a great deal of electricity. The impulse programme is integrated into the Buildings Programme’s existing structures.
Last modification 13.02.2025
