Artisans et Bois n°79
Suspension of MaPrimeRénov’,
renovation at a standstill
Announced in the spring, the suspension of the MaPrimeRénov’ scheme sent shockwaves through the wood sector and the wider construction industry. Designed as a pillar of the ecological transition, the “grant” had enabled many small craft businesses to structure their offerings, invest, and train their teams. But by abruptly halting funding for large-scale renovations, the State—citing a rise in “fraud,” an overload of applications, or funds left unallocated—has further weakened an already fragile balance.
Joiners, carpenters, fit-out specialists, manufacturers of bio-based insulation: professionals are feeling the full force of this partial freeze. Quotes cancelled, projects put on hold, cash-flow losses… the fallout is immediate. Even though the government ultimately kept the scheme in place for single-measure works, on the ground some tradespeople are already considering staff reductions or postponing hires planned for the summer. Industry unions are sounding the alarm: for CAPEB, “this abrupt shutdown jeopardises the economic balance of thousands of craft businesses [and we call for] the immediate reinstatement of payments and the introduction of a stable, long-term framework.” The FFB strikes the same note, reminding that “energy renovation cannot function in fits and starts. Companies—especially the smallest—need visibility to organise, recruit, and invest. This decision imperils the trust built up over several years.”
Beyond the economic impact, the overall coherence of the renovation strategy is being undermined. With a “refocusing” slated for the autumn, let us hope the new version of the scheme will be lasting, effective, and reliable. It is not enough to declare energy renovation a great national cause; the means must follow!
Adèle CAZIER