Energy renovation and refurbishment: understanding the process and the role of 3D surveys
Against a backdrop of energy transition and the fight against waste, the energy renovation of buildings has become a priority issue in Switzerland. Insulation, efficient heating, reducing emissions: these targeted measures can improve the comfort of occupants over the long term, while at the same time reducing bills. But before any renovation can be carried out, it's important to have a thorough understanding of what already exists.
This is where the 3D survey comes in, a key stage in establishing a reliable diagnosis and structuring an effective renovation plan. This article explains how an energy renovation project is organised, and how our service fits into the process.
⏱️Résumé in 20 seconds
To renovate a building with 60 flats, 3D Scan Bat carried out a 3D survey in 3 days, providing the technical basis for the energy diagnosis and the renovation plan.
Why renovate a building today?
Against a backdrop of climate crisis and rising energy costs, energy renovation is becoming a strategic issue. In Switzerland, buildings are responsible for more than 40 % of energy consumption. To reduce this footprint, the cantons, including Vaud, Geneva and Fribourg, are actively supporting energy renovation initiatives through subsidies and progressive regulation.
An energy audit allows :
from reduce energy costs (heating, electricity) ;
from extend service life of a building ;
from enhancing the value of our real estate assets;
d'access public funding via cantonal programmes.
The typical energy renovation process
Energy renovation is generally based on a CECB Plus studyA complete audit of the building's condition and energy performance.
Here are the key stages:
Initial assessment and survey The design is often based on a precise 3D survey of the existing building.
Energy analysis (CECB or CECB Plus) Diagnosis of the envelope and installations.
Proposed renovation options These are accompanied by estimates of costs, energy savings and return on investment.
Apply for a grant To be submitted prior to the works.
Coordinated work according to an overall plan integrating the various disciplines (insulation, heating, asbestos removal, etc.).
The contribution of 3D surveying to energy renovation
At 3D Scan Batwe can help upstream of any energy renovation projectby creating a complete 3D survey of the existing building. This technical database enables all those involved - design offices, CECB experts, architects, building owners - to work with reliable, accurate and up-to-date data.
3D surveying makes it easier :
the faithful modelling of the envelope (roof, facades, interior volumes),
the preparation of energy audits type CECB Plus,
the coordination of work (asbestos removal, ventilation, insulation, heating),
the reducing unforeseen eventsThis is made possible by the visualisation of technical constraints.
A technical basis for the coordinated remediation plan
The energy renovation plan is based on reliable data: condition of the envelope, geometry, access, clearance, presence of asbestos, type of accommodation, etc.
Thanks to our :
the DWG and PDF drawings extracted from the cloud of points allow design offices to work directly,
a 3D IFC model can also be provided if coordination is carried out via a BIM platform,
the useful surfaces can be calculated for grant applications.
NB: At 3D Scan Bat, we take measurements by 3D scan specially designed to make it easier to obtain CECB Plus certification. These services include the production of clouds of points, 2D plans and 3D models that can be used by the commissioned experts. To find out more, visit our page dedicated to measuring for the CECB Plus certification
Case study: complete survey for the renovation of an 8-storey building
As part of an energy renovation project for a 8-storey residential building comprising approximately 60 flatswe produced a exhaustive 3D survey on site.
Intervention details :
3 scanner teams mobilised simultaneously during 3 days ;
over 1,000 scans performedfully covering floors, facades and roof ;
coordination with an asbestos removal companywho is present on site to take samples at the same time;
data delivered in the form of a point cloud2D plans and digital mock-up, ready to be integrated into the CECB Plus study.
Result:
This survey enabled :
a precise modelling of the building, including in complex technical areas,
a reliable energy diagnostics based on exact dimensions,
a optimising lead times thanks to the pooling of services,
a unique basis for work for CEBS experts, engineers and building owners.
📌 The plans from this survey are shown below to illustrate the quality and level of detail provided.
Frequently asked questions about energy renovation
What work is eligible for energy-efficiency grants in Switzerland?
Eligible work includes thermal insulation (facades, roofs), window replacement, installation of heat pumps, dual-flow ventilation and CECB Plus audits. Applications for subsidies must be made before the start of work.
What is the difference between a CEBS and a CEBS Plus?
Le CECB (Certificat Énergétique Cantonal des Bâtiments) is an energy label. The CECB Plusgoes further, proposing several renovation optionsincluding profitability calculations, subsidies and planning.
Do I need to take a precise reading to get an EPCC Plus?
Yes, a 3D survey or reliable plans are needed for the expert to be able to draw up appropriate renovation proposals. Our 3D laser scan provides this high-quality geometric base.
Can asbestos removal be combined with energy renovation?
Absolutely. During an energy renovation project, it's common to call in an asbestos removal expert, especially for buildings built before 1991. Our service fits in perfectly with this overall coordination.
