Connected thermostats: a new blow to homeowners’ spending power

A fresh blow to the spending power of the millions of people affected.

Connected thermostats: a costly requirement

The measure may have gone largely unnoticed. In June 2023, the government introduced a decree making the installation of connected thermostats on every radiator in a home compulsory from 2027. Authorities have since rowed back somewhat, now referring to 2030 instead. While the proposal is well intentioned and could even help households cut their energy use, it will also come at a cost to those concerned.

As Capital points out, financial support was initially made available, but it was swiftly withdrawn following fraud. Those affected will therefore have to pay themselves, at a cost of almost €300 per radiator. For a property with four radiators, the bill would reach €1200, and could be higher depending on the circumstances. Two exemptions are nevertheless planned: for homes where the installation would not pay for itself within ten years, and for properties fitted with a wood-burning stove.

“The state is interfering in matters that are none of its business”

The requirement has prompted a furious reaction from RTL editorialist François Lenglet, who described the obligation as “absurd”. He added: “We have lost all sense of proportion. The state is interfering in matters that are none of its business.”

In his view, the government should focus instead on major energy issues, including reviving nuclear power and speeding up renewable energy development. Former Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau then joined the controversy, complaining with a dose of irony:

At this rate, there will soon be inspections into the thickness of jumpers, a commission tasked with checking the energy efficiency of duvets, and a requirement to grow optimal body hair in order to reduce our energy bill.

Further pressure on homeowners’ spending power

Bad news appears to be mounting for homeowners’ spending power. We recently reported on the proposed Multi-Year Works Plan (PPPT). Since 1 January 2025, under the Climate and Resilience Act, all blocks of flats more than 15 years old have been required to draw one up, in order to anticipate the renovation work needed to safeguard buildings and homes. Although nothing has been confirmed, many already fear a sharp rise in costs. Further information is available in our previous article here.