You’ve probably already heard of the PPE, but do you really know what this acronym means and why it’s so important for our energy future? The PPE, or Multi-year Energy Programme, is an essential document that guides France’s energy policy. It’s a bit like a roadmap that helps us achieve our energy goals, particularly carbon neutrality by 2050. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning of PPE, its role, and how it impacts our daily lives, from the buildings we live in to the heating systems we use.

Key takeaways

• The PPE is France’s energy roadmap to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
• It is framed by the energy transition law and is articulated with the National Low-Carbon Strategy.
• The Tertiary Decree, linked to the PPE, aims for a 60% reduction in energy consumption of tertiary buildings by 2050.
• Optimisation of HVAC systems and integration of renewable energies are pillars for achieving the PPE’s objectives.
• The F-Gas regulation and RE2020 impose strict standards to reduce the environmental impact of buildings and equipment.

Understanding the meaning of PPE

Definition and role of the Multi-year Energy Programme

The Multi-year Energy Programme (PPE) is a strategic planning document. It is essential for French energy policy. It defines medium and long-term priorities and objectives in terms of energy. It aims to guide the actions of public authorities and energy sector stakeholders. The PPE is a steering tool for achieving national objectives in terms of energy transition. It takes into account various aspects such as production, consumption, diversification of energy sources and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. For more information, you can consult this article which details the PPE.

The PPE as a steering tool for the energy transition

The PPE plays a central role in France’s energy transition. It translates national ambitions into concrete actions. It serves as a roadmap for the various stakeholders in the energy sector. It ensures consistency in public policies and investments. The PPE is a steering tool that allows monitoring progress made in terms of energy transition. It allows adjusting objectives and measures according to technological developments and climate challenges. It is articulated with other strategic approaches, such as the National Low-Carbon Strategy (SNBC), to ensure overall consistency of energy policy.

Objectives and ambitions of the PPE for France

The PPE sets ambitious objectives for France in terms of energy. These objectives are aligned with European and international commitments in the fight against climate change. Among the main objectives are:

• Reducing energy consumption.
• Developing renewable energies.
• Decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Improving the energy efficiency of buildings.
• Diversifying the energy mix.

The PPE aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. To this end, it provides for incentive measures and obligations for the various stakeholders in the energy sector. It encourages innovation and the development of new technologies for a successful energy transition. The PPE is an essential tool for ensuring a sustainable energy future for France. Unfortunately, there seems to be a database problem that could affect access to certain information.

The regulatory framework of the PPE

The Multi-year Energy Programme (PPE) doesn’t just appear out of nowhere. It is solidly anchored in a precise regulatory framework, which defines its role and its application procedures. It’s a bit like the foundations of a house: without them, nothing stands. We’re going to see how the PPE integrates into existing laws and strategies.

The PPE’s anchoring in the energy transition law

The PPE was established by the energy transition law for green growth in 2015. This law laid the foundations for a new energy policy for France, with ambitious objectives for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and developing renewable energies. The PPE is one of the main tools for achieving these objectives. It sets the priorities for public action in the energy sector and defines a trajectory for the French energy mix. It’s a bit like the GPS of the energy transition, showing the way forward.

Articulation with the National Low-Carbon Strategy

The PPE is closely linked to the National Low-Carbon Strategy (SNBC). The SNBC defines long-term greenhouse gas emission reduction targets, while the PPE specifies the actions to be implemented in the short and medium term to achieve these targets. The PPE must be compatible with the SNBC, which means that it must not include measures that would be contrary to the SNBC’s guidelines. It’s as if the PPE were the detailed action plan to implement the SNBC’s vision. The SNBC and the PPE work together to ensure the consistency of French energy policy.

Revisions and periods of the PPE

The PPE is not a static document. It is revised regularly, in principle every five years, to take into account changes in technologies, energy markets, and climate objectives. These revisions allow the energy transition trajectory to be adjusted and ensure that France is still on track to achieve its objectives. The first PPE was approved in 2016 and covered the periods 2016-2018 and 2019-2023. The current PPE covers the period 2024-2028. The multi-year energy programme is a continuous process, which allows energy policy to be adapted to on-the-ground realities.

The PPE is an essential document for steering the energy transition in France. It allows clear objectives to be set, the actions of different stakeholders to be coordinated, and progress to be monitored. It is an indispensable tool for building a sustainable energy future.

Impact of the PPE on energy consumption

The Multi-year Energy Programme (PPE) plays a decisive role in the trajectory of energy consumption in France. It sets ambitious objectives and implements mechanisms to achieve them. We can say that the PPE is a bit like France’s energy roadmap. It tells us where we need to go and how we plan to get there. It’s an important document, as it commits the State for several years.

Energy consumption reduction targets

The PPE aims for a significant reduction in energy consumption at the national level. The main objective is to reduce energy consumption by 60% by 2050 compared to 2010. To achieve this, intermediate steps are set, with reductions of 40% in 2030 and 50% in 2040. These ambitious objectives require a profound transformation of our consumption and production patterns. The PPE relies on several levers, such as improving energy efficiency in all sectors, developing renewable energies, and combating waste.

• 40% reduction by 2030.
• 50% reduction by 2040.
• 60% reduction by 2050.

The PPE does not just set numerical targets. It also puts in place tools to monitor progress and adjust policies based on results. It is a dynamic process that requires constant evaluation and adaptation to technological and societal changes.

The role of the Tertiary Decree in implementation

The Tertiary Decree, officially called the Eco Energie Tertiaire scheme, is an essential instrument for the implementation of the PPE. It applies to buildings in the tertiary sector, i.e. offices, shops, educational establishments, etc. This decree imposes obligations to reduce energy consumption for these buildings, with progressive targets to be met. The tertiary decree is somewhat the cornerstone of France’s energy transition strategy. It imposes major changes in the management of buildings in the tertiary sector, which are not without consequences for companies that must comply with it.

Obligations for building owners and occupants

The Tertiary Decree imposes clear obligations on owners and occupants of tertiary buildings. They must annually declare their consumption data on the OPERAT platform by September 30th. This obligation affects approximately 68% of the French tertiary building stock, representing more than a third of the building sector’s energy consumption. Owners must ensure the energy compliance of their buildings. They must also implement concrete actions to reduce their consumption. This can involve insulation work, replacing heating and air conditioning equipment, or optimising lighting. Occupants also have a role to play, by adopting more energy-efficient behaviours and reporting any energy performance problems. The PPE encourages the development of more local production, such as self-consumption solutions, both residential and collective. For 2023, the PPE thus plans the installation of 200,000 self-consumption photovoltaic sites, including 500 collective ones. The multi-year energy programme has a direct impact on the electricity grid. It allows anticipating the investments necessary to meet the guidelines defined by the State.

Energy performance of tertiary buildings

The Tertiary Decree and its implications

The Tertiary Decree is a central element of France’s energy transition strategy. It aims to reduce energy consumption in tertiary buildings over 1,000 m². The objective is a 40% reduction by 2030, 50% by 2040, and 60% by 2050, compared to 2010. This implies significant changes in how these buildings are managed and operated. Owners and tenants must collaborate to achieve these ambitious goals. It is important to note that the tertiary DPE assesses a building’s energy consumption.

Reducing energy consumption of structures over 1000 m²

Reducing the energy consumption of buildings over 1000 m² is a major challenge, but also an opportunity. To achieve this, several actions can be implemented:

• Improved thermal insulation.
• Optimisation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
• Installation of more efficient and less energy-intensive equipment.

It is essential to implement a global and coherent strategy, taking into account the specificities of each building. A personalised approach is often the key to success. Energy performance is a central issue for the buildings of tomorrow.

The OPERAT platform for consumption declaration

The OPERAT platform (Observatory of Energy Performance, Renovation and Tertiary Actions) is the tool set up by ADEME to allow owners and tenants to declare their energy consumption. This declaration is mandatory and must be made annually by September 30th. The platform allows monitoring the evolution of consumption and verifying whether the objectives set by the Tertiary Decree are met. It is important to note that the energy consumption of the tertiary sector is a major issue.

Optimisation of HVAC systems and the PPE

The importance of HVAC Energy Performance

The energy performance of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems has become a major issue, especially with the increasing demands of the Multi-year Energy Programme (PPE). In 2025, it is no longer enough to have an operational HVAC system; it must be optimised. The objective is to combine energy performance, carbon sobriety, and control of operating costs.

The BACS Decree and building automation

The BACS (Building Automation and Control Systems) Decree plays a crucial role in optimising HVAC systems. This decree mandates the installation of automation and control systems in new buildings and those undergoing major renovation. These systems allow for finer and more responsive management of energy consumption, by adjusting the operation of the building’s technical installations in real time. The BACS Decree helps to better use energy in buildings.

Optimisation strategies for HVAC installations

To optimise HVAC installations, several strategies can be implemented:

• Preventive maintenance: Regular maintenance ensures the proper functioning of equipment and prevents efficiency losses.
• Equipment renovation: Replacing obsolete equipment with more efficient models can significantly reduce energy consumption. One can also consider HVAC energy performance.
• Use of Building Management Systems (BMS): These systems centralise control of installations and optimise their operation according to real needs.
• Integration of renewable energies: Using renewable energy sources, such as solar thermal or geothermal, reduces dependence on fossil fuels and decreases greenhouse gas emissions.

Optimising HVAC systems is a profitable long-term investment. It not only reduces energy costs but also improves occupant comfort and contributes to the fight against climate change. The PPE strongly encourages these approaches, by setting ambitious targets for energy efficiency and the development of renewable energies. It is therefore important to understand the meaning of the PPE.

The integration of renewable energies

The integration of renewable energies has become a priority in the building sector, particularly to meet the requirements of the Multi-year Energy Programme (PPE). This approach aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems are particularly concerned by this transition.

The role of renewable energies in HVAC systems

Renewable energies offer a sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources. Their integration into HVAC systems helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy costs. The use of these energies contributes to improving the overall energy efficiency of buildings.

• Solar thermal energy: Use of solar panels to heat domestic hot water or power heating systems.
• Geothermal energy: Exploitation of heat from the ground for heating and cooling.
• Biomass: Use of organic matter for heat production.

The integration of renewable energies into HVAC systems is an essential lever for achieving the PPE’s objectives in terms of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving the energy efficiency of buildings.

Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions

The use of renewable energies in HVAC systems contributes significantly to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. By replacing fossil fuels with clean energy sources, it is possible to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings and combat climate change. The HVAC energy performance is a central issue for the buildings of tomorrow.

Alternatives to fossil fuels

Several alternatives to fossil fuels are available to power HVAC systems:

• Heat pumps: They use energy present in the air, water, or ground to heat or cool buildings. They are particularly efficient and can significantly reduce energy consumption.
• Photovoltaic solar: Electricity produced by solar panels can be used to power HVAC systems, thus reducing dependence on fossil fuels. It is important to note that the page displays a “Database Error” message.
• District heating networks: They distribute heat produced from renewable sources (biomass, geothermal) to several buildings, thus optimising energy efficiency and reducing emissions. The F-Gas regulation is an essential pillar of the European strategy to reduce emissions.

The F-Gas regulation and its challenges

The F-Gas regulation represents a central pillar of European environmental policy, aiming to drastically reduce emissions of fluorinated gases, known for their high global warming potential. This regulation directly impacts the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) sector, by imposing restrictions on the use of certain refrigerants and encouraging the adoption of more environmentally friendly alternative solutions. Understanding the ins and outs of this regulation is essential for professionals in the sector.

Reducing the use of harmful refrigerants

The main objective of the F-Gas regulation is to reduce the use of refrigerants that have a negative impact on the climate. This translates into progressive bans on certain fluids, as well as import and production quotas for HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons). Companies must therefore turn to alternatives, such as natural fluids (CO2, ammonia, propane) or HFOs (hydrofluoroolefins), which have a lower global warming potential (GWP). The F-Gas regulation on HVAC refrigerants imposes major changes.

The Global Warming Potential (GWP) indicator

Global Warming Potential (GWP) is a key indicator of the F-Gas regulation. It measures a gas’s contribution to the greenhouse effect relative to carbon dioxide (CO2) over a given period (usually 100 years). The higher the GWP of a refrigerant, the greater its impact on the climate. The F-Gas regulation sets GWP thresholds not to be exceeded for certain applications, which encourages the use of low-GWP fluids.

Transition to natural fluids

The transition to natural fluids represents a major challenge for the HVAC sector. These fluids, such as CO2, ammonia, and propane, have a very low, or even zero, GWP, and therefore constitute sustainable alternatives to HFCs. However, their use may require technical adaptations and specific safety measures. For example, ammonia is toxic and flammable, while propane is flammable. It is therefore essential to train personnel in the handling of these fluids and to comply with current safety standards. It is crucial to understand the F Gas regulation for HVAC companies.

The F-Gas regulation is a challenge, but also an opportunity for the HVAC sector. By adopting innovative and sustainable solutions, companies can not only comply with regulatory requirements but also improve their energy performance and reduce their environmental impact.

Here are some key points to remember:

• The F-Gas regulation aims to reduce fluorinated gas emissions.
• GWP is a key indicator for assessing the climate impact of refrigerants.
• The transition to natural fluids is a major issue for the HVAC sector.
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RE2020 and its requirements for 2025

As a design office, we know that as of 13 June 2025, the game has changed. RE2020 is no longer a mere recommendation, but an obligation. Every project must now juggle energy performance, carbon sobriety, and control of operating costs. This is a major challenge, but also an opportunity to innovate and build more sustainable buildings. We can no longer be content with doing things as before. We need to rethink our approach, refine our calculations, and anticipate the actual uses of buildings. Otherwise, our projects risk being penalised by outdated technical choices or insufficient simulations.

New standards for new constructions

Since 1 January 2025, RE2020 has reached a new stage. The thresholds are stricter, and this concerns all projects for which a building permit was submitted from this date. Whether it’s individual houses, collective housing, offices, or school establishments, everyone is concerned. It must be said that the objective is clear: improve energy performance, limit summer overheating, and reduce the building’s carbon footprint. This is a huge challenge, but it is also a necessity to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. It is therefore crucial to fully understand the objectives of RE2020 to comply with them.

Energy performance and carbon sobriety objectives

RE2020 imposes ambitious objectives in terms of energy performance and carbon sobriety. It is no longer just about building buildings that consume little energy, but also about reducing their overall environmental impact. This involves the choice of materials, the design of the building, the equipment installed, and the energy sources used. A global and integrated approach must therefore be adopted to meet the requirements of RE2020.

The ambition is clear: to achieve a 60% reduction in energy consumption by 2050 compared to 2010. To achieve this, intermediate objectives have been set: -40% in 2030 and -50% in 2040. These measures are part of the broader Eco Energie Tertiaire scheme, aiming to effectively combat climate change.

Here are some key points to remember:

• Reduce building energy consumption
• Prioritise bio-based and low-carbon materials
• Promote renewable energies

Anticipation of actual uses and precise calculations

One of the most important aspects of RE2020 is the anticipation of the actual uses of buildings. It is no longer enough to rely on theoretical data or standardised simulations. Account must be taken of occupant habits, local climatic conditions, and the specificities of the building. This implies carrying out precise calculations and implementing effective monitoring and control tools. This is a long-term effort, but it is essential to guarantee the energy performance of buildings over the long term. If you encounter database errors during your calculations, do not hesitate to contact your software provider for assistance. It is also important to note that resolving database errors is crucial to ensure the reliability of the results.

Thermal regulation and occupant comfort

Basic principles of thermal regulation

Thermal regulation is an essential element to ensure comfort in buildings while optimising energy consumption. It is based on fundamental principles that aim to maintain a stable and pleasant indoor temperature, regardless of external conditions. This involves effectively controlling heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). Good thermal regulation helps reduce heat loss in winter and limit heat gain in summer, thus contributing to better energy efficiency.

Improving quality of life and reducing consumption

Effective thermal regulation has a direct impact on the quality of life of occupants. A comfortable indoor environment promotes well-being, productivity, and health. By avoiding excessive temperature variations, thermal stress and the risk of respiratory diseases are reduced. In addition, optimised regulation significantly reduces energy consumption. By precisely adjusting heating and air conditioning to actual needs, waste is avoided and the building’s carbon footprint is reduced.

Impact on energy bills

The most visible impact of thermal regulation is undoubtedly the reduction in energy bills. A well-regulated system consumes less energy, which translates into substantial savings for occupants or owners. Thermal regulation optimises collective heating, which can reduce energy expenditure by up to 15% in homes. In addition, by extending the lifespan of HVAC equipment through optimised operation, maintenance and replacement costs are also reduced.

Efficient thermal regulation is a profitable long-term investment. It improves occupant comfort, reduces energy consumption, and lowers building operating costs. It also contributes to the fight against climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Here is an example of a comparative table of potential savings:

Type of building	Potential savings
Individual dwelling	10-20%
Tertiary building	15-25%
Industrial building	20-30%

In conclusion, thermal regulation is a key element for improving occupant comfort and reducing energy consumption. It allows significant savings on energy bills and contributes to environmental protection. It is therefore essential to implement efficient regulation systems adapted to the needs of each building, taking into account current standards and available technologies. If you encounter a connection problem, check your database access.

Heat pumps as an energy solution

Heat pumps are gaining popularity as a sustainable energy solution, in line with the PPE’s objectives. They offer an interesting alternative to traditional heating systems, contributing to the reduction of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. It is important to understand how they work and their advantages for a successful energy transition.

Advantages of heat pumps for decarbonisation

Heat pumps offer several significant advantages for decarbonising the heating sector. They use a renewable energy source, air, water, or ground, to produce heat, thus reducing dependence on fossil fuels. In addition, their energy efficiency is high, meaning they consume less energy than they produce. This results in a reduction in CO2 emissions and a contribution to the fight against climate change. The heat pump is a modern solution for efficient heating and hot water production.

How air-source heat pumps work

Air-source heat pumps capture calories from the outside air to heat a building. Even when outside temperatures are low, the air still contains thermal energy that can be extracted and used. The process involves a refrigerant fluid circulating in a closed cycle, absorbing heat from the outside air and transferring it inside the building. This type of heat pump is particularly suitable for regions where winter temperatures are not extremely low. They offer an effective alternative to electric radiators and condensing gas boilers. The air-source heat pump is a future-proof solution for sustainable housing.

Contribution to the fight against climate change

The widespread adoption of heat pumps can play an important role in the fight against climate change. By reducing the consumption of fossil fuels for heating, heat pumps help to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, which are the main cause of global warming. In addition, they promote the use of renewable energies, in accordance with the PPE’s objectives. The PPE sets clear objectives for the development of renewable and recovered energies (ENR&R): to increase installed capacity from 48.6 GW at the end of 2017 to 73.5 GW in 2023, then between 101 and 113 GW in 2028. This includes developing wind, hydroelectric, and photovoltaic sectors. The same applies to the production of renewable cold and renewable heat (which still depends 40% on gas as an energy source). The objective is to reach approximately 200 TWh of renewable heat in 2023. All these actions should enable France to increase ENR production by 70% in 10 years, from 290 TWh to 490 TWh!

The integration of heat pumps into the French energy landscape represents a significant step towards a more sustainable future. Their efficiency and ability to use renewable energy sources make them a promising solution for achieving the PPE’s objectives and reducing the country’s carbon footprint.

Heat pumps are great for your home’s energy. They take heat from the air, water, or ground to warm your interior. It’s a clever way to save money and pollute less. If you want to know more about how it works and if it’s right for you, visit our website. We’ll explain everything simply so you can make the right choice for your home.

In summary

The Multi-year Energy Programme, or PPE, is an important document for France. It helps us know how to produce and use energy in the coming years. The main goal is to reduce our energy consumption and our dependence on fossil fuels. It’s a bit like a roadmap to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The PPE is updated regularly to adapt to new challenges and technological advances. It pushes us to be more efficient and to use cleaner energy sources. Basically, it’s a key tool for a greener and more energy-efficient future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PPE?

The PPE, or Multi-year Energy Programme, is an important plan for France. It indicates how the country will manage its energy for the coming years. Its aim is to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and protect the environment.

What is the purpose of the PPE?

The PPE is like a roadmap. It sets precise objectives for energy production and consumption, such as reducing coal use or increasing renewable energies. It helps organise government actions to achieve these goals.

How does the PPE integrate into French law?

The PPE is linked to the energy transition law. It must also align with the National Low-Carbon Strategy, which is a plan to reduce gases that cause global warming.

Does the PPE change often?

The PPE is updated regularly, approximately every five years. This allows it to adapt to new technologies and changes in the energy world.

Is the Tertiary Decree linked to the PPE?

Yes, the Tertiary Decree is a rule that comes from the PPE. It obliges large buildings, such as offices or shops over 1000 m², to significantly reduce their energy consumption. The objective is to reduce energy consumption by 60% by 2050 compared to 2010.

What is the BACS Decree?

The BACS Decree requires buildings to have intelligent systems to manage heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). This allows for better energy control and savings. These systems are mandatory for HVAC installations over 70 kW.

What is RE2020 and why is it important in 2025?

RE2020 is a rule for new constructions. It requires buildings to be very energy-efficient and to produce less carbon. From 2025, the requirements are even stricter to make buildings more “green”.

How do heat pumps help achieve the PPE’s objectives?

Heat pumps are very useful for the PPE. They use energy from the air, water, or ground to heat or cool buildings. They are efficient and pollute less than traditional heating systems, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.