- Introduction
France continues to push energy efficiency and sustainability through home renovation grants. However, reforms introduced in 2024–2025 have tightened eligibility, increased compliance requirements, and adjusted grant amounts. Central to these rules is the RGE certification (Reconnu Garant de l’Environnement), which contractors must hold for homeowners to access most subsidies.
- Key Reforms
2.1 Stricter Verification of RGE Certification
Contractors must now provide written proof of RGE status, including the certifying body.
When subcontractors are used, the primary contractor must disclose whether they hold RGE certification.
Firms falsely claiming RGE certification risk fines and withdrawal of the label.
2.2 Grant Eligibility Adjustments
Single-action works (e.g., insulation, window replacement) are again eligible, without needing to be combined with larger projects.
Major renovations (“Rénovation d’ampleur”): stricter eligibility criteria, with aid targeted at poorly rated homes (E, F, G).
2.3 Changes to Grant Amounts
Income-based aid distribution:
Middle-income households: eligible for up to 80% of costs.
Higher-income households: capped at 50%.
Ceilings reduced: Maximum eligible expenses for large renovations lowered from €70,000 to €30,000–€40,000, depending on energy gains.
2.4 Penalties for Fraud or Misrepresentation
Incorrect or incomplete grant applications can lead to repayment plus penalties (up to 50%).
Proven fraud can result in severe sanctions, including exclusion from future aid.
2.5 New Financing Options
Introduction of a zero-interest advance loan (Prêt Avance Rénovation Plus, PAR+):
Applies to primary residences older than 2 years.
Repayable over 10 years.
Aims to support households struggling with upfront renovation costs.
- Implications for Homeowners
Due diligence is essential: Always verify and keep copies of RGE certifications from contractors and subcontractors.
Check eligibility early: Your household income and the property’s energy rating determine how much aid you receive.
Budget planning: With lower ceilings on eligible expenses, households may need to co-finance a greater share of large projects.
Compliance risks: Errors in applications can lead to heavy financial penalties.
- Implications for Contractors
Transparency requirement: Clear communication of RGE status is mandatory.
Higher accountability: Poor workmanship can now lead to loss of RGE certification.
Opportunity: As grants remain tied to RGE, certified contractors gain a competitive advantage.
- Conclusion
The new rules reflect France’s dual priorities: tightening oversight to reduce fraud and targeting subsidies more effectively at lower-income households and energy-inefficient homes. Homeowners planning renovations must pay close attention to contractor certifications, eligibility criteria, and adjusted financial caps. RGE certification remains the gateway to most grants, and compliance is stricter than ever.
