Many of you have likely heard about the upcoming ban on wood heaters set for 2027. With conflicting information regarding dates and the devices affected, it can be challenging to understand what’s really happening! You may be wondering what to actually expect. Let’s take a closer look together to clarify the situation once and for all.
Are wood heaters soon to be banned: a true threat or a misunderstanding?
A recent survey conducted by the German manufacturer HASE among 2,632 people living in France revealed that 51% mistakenly believe that starting in 2027, the sale of all boilers and wood stoves will be banned. Surprising, isn’t it?
In reality, only 10% of respondents had the correct information: the European regulation is focused solely on banning certain devices deemed particularly polluting. A lot of confusion surrounds this topic. Why such a widespread misunderstanding?
Audrey Zermati, strategy director at Effy, a company specialized in energy renovation, provides a valuable explanation to Le Figaro Immobilier: “The confusion arises from the Ecodesign regulation proposed by the European Union. However, like several such projects currently underway, it has been postponed without a specific date.” This is partly why the messaging is so unclear.
Which wood devices could be banned starting in 2027?
To be clear: there is absolutely no plan to ban all devices. In fact, the European Union is specifically targeting the least efficient and most polluting equipment. Specifically, this mainly concerns:
- Old wood stoves that are inefficient in terms of thermal output
- Open fireplace designs, which are particularly responsible for significant emissions of harmful microparticulates
The issue with these older appliances? They allow up to 60% of the heat produced to escape directly into the atmosphere.
Even more concerning, according to the Ministry of Ecological Transition, despite representing only 10% of installations in France, they account for 21% of polluting emissions from domestic wood heating. Perhaps it’s time to seriously consider replacing your old appliances?
An uncertain timeline: a transition that causes concern
Nearly 7 million people in France are potentially affected by the replacement of these outdated appliances. This understandably raises many concerns: what will the actual cost of this operation be? What specific public aid will be offered to support this necessary transition?
As of now, everything remains unclear at the European level. The European Commission decided to postpone the project originally set for February 12 without providing a new firm deadline.
What to do while awaiting final clarification?
If you have an affected appliance, don’t panic! Nothing is definitively set in stone yet. However, it’s wise to anticipate a future obligation by exploring current solutions to switch to a more efficient and less polluting device.
Not only will this allow you to continue enjoying the cozy warmth of wood heating, but you will also help to preserve air quality.
To prepare effectively, take the time to gather information on:
- Wood stove models labeled “Flamme Verte”
- Energy aid currently available (MaPrimeRénov’, Eco-PTZ, etc.)
It’s best to get ahead of things now, isn’t it?
Has this information helped you to better understand wood heating? Are you concerned about this potential ban in 2027? Do you think it’s a good initiative for the planet? Have you considered replacing your old equipment with a less polluting model? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
