Minergie Label: Definition and Buying Guide for a Certified Property

Energy performance has become a major issue for buyers. How can you find a property that is both environmentally friendly and economical? The Minergie label provides a clear answer by certifying buildings that ensure occupant comfort while supporting climate protection. Discover everything you need to know about this label and the criteria to consider when acquiring a Minergie-certified property.

What is the Minergie Label?

Created in 1998 in Switzerland, the Minergie label certifies new or renovated buildings for their energy efficiency and occupant comfort. A Minergie-certified building guarantees a significant reduction in energy consumption, often between 50% and 70% lower than conventional buildings. More than 56,000 buildings have received this label.

Strict Criteria for Obtaining the Label

Obtaining the Minergie label requires meeting a range of strict criteria:

• Minimised energy consumption of the building.
  
• High-quality thermal insulation.
  
• Guaranteed occupant comfort, achieved through efficient ventilation and insulation systems.
  
• Use of renewable energy sources, particularly solar energy.
  
• Minimal CO₂ emissions during the building’s operational phase.
  

Different Levels of Certification

Several certification levels exist:

• Minergie: Reduced energy consumption and increased comfort compared to standard buildings.
  
• Minergie-P: For very low energy consumption constructions, meeting high standards of energy efficiency, comfort, and material quality.
  
• Minergie-A: For buildings that are 100% energy independent, producing their own energy with solar panels.
  
• ECO complement: Indicates that health and ecological considerations were integrated during construction.
  

Why Choose a Property with the Minergie Label?

Acquiring a Minergie-certified property is advantageous for several reasons:

• Lower energy consumption compared to average residential buildings, leading to reduced heating and cooling costs and minimal CO₂ emissions.
  
• Optimal indoor climate, neither too cold in winter nor too hot in summer, with high-quality air provided by an efficient ventilation system.
  
• Potential increase in property value over time; for example, certified detached houses may gain up to 7% more than conventional properties according to a Minergie study.
  

Buying a Minergie Property: How Does It Work?

If you are looking for a Minergie-certified property, the first step is to contact a real estate agency specialised in sustainable properties, such as FGP Swiss & Alps, to access a curated list of certified buildings.

Criteria to Consider When Buying

When buying, keep these criteria in mind:

• Certification level: Ensure the property displays the correct Minergie certification.
  
• Energy performance: Confirm that energy consumption meets the label’s requirements and that annual energy costs align with expectations.
  
• Standard real estate considerations: Location, proximity to amenities, and quality of local services.
  

Documentation to Check

Make sure the following documents are available:

• Architectural plans
  
• Certificate of completion (for new buildings)
  
• Previous energy certificates (for existing buildings)
  
• Reports from the certification office
  
• Builder declarations confirming compliance with Minergie standards
  

Choosing a certified property ensures energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, making it a highly relevant choice for any real estate project.

FAQ on the Minergie Label