Noise assessments in accordance with the Swiss Noise Abatement Ordinance (LSV) and Cercle Bruit guidelines
Assessments of noise emissions
A noise assessment evaluates noise levels in a specific environment. This involves a detailed analysis of noise sources, such as road and rail traffic, industrial and commercial activities, and everyday noise. A comprehensive noise assessment provides a sound basis for decision-making in construction and planning projects, ensuring that noise impacts are properly considered and minimised.
Energy compliance assessment in accordance with SIA 380/1
Space heating demand
As part of the building permit application, an energy compliance assessment is required by law. This assessment is carried out in accordance with SIA 380/1 and can be undertaken using either the individual building element method or the system method.
With the system method, the entire building is modelled to calculate its actual space heating demand. These results enable the building services engineer to design the heating system accurately.
Acoustic compliance assessment in accordance with SIA 181
Building acoustics: sound insulation against external and internal noise
During the planning phase, an acoustic compliance assessment in accordance with SIA 181 is required. Sound insulation is assessed against the applicable acoustic requirements. The assessment covers individual components of the building envelope as well as internal building elements.
On-site electricity generation in accordance with EN-104
The EN-104 form is used to determine the required electrical generation capacity (kW) in accordance with cantonal energy regulations. If required for the building consent application, the photovoltaic (PV) system can be presented using dynamic simulation software featuring 3D visualisation and detailed shading analysis.
In addition, calculations can be carried out for photovoltaic systems in combination with electrical loads, battery storage systems and electric vehicles.
Heating and hot water systems in accordance with EN-103
Extensions and additional building structures must meet various requirements relating to heating and hot water production. These include parameters such as waste heat recovery, heating flow temperatures, hot water temperatures and thermal insulation of storage tanks, among other factors.
Minergie certification applications
Minergie, Minergie-P and Minergie-A standards, with or without ECO
Minergie is the Swiss building standard for new builds and refurbishments, focusing on comfort, energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. A high-performance building envelope and controlled ventilation play a central role. Minergie-certified buildings also consistently use renewable energy sources, harnessing the full potential of solar energy. These buildings produce no CO₂ emissions during operation, while greenhouse gas emissions associated with their construction are reduced to a minimum.
There are currently three Minergie building standards: Minergie, Minergie-P and Minergie-A. These ensure that the highest standards of quality and efficiency are pursued from the planning stage onwards. For refurbishment projects, a simplified certification procedure known as Minergie System Renovation is available.
Minergie districts combine existing and new buildings and are subject to clear requirements for sustainable transformation. They are characterised by very low energy consumption, minimised greenhouse gas emissions during both construction and operation, and the highest possible level of self-sufficiency through renewable energy.
The additional ECO designation addresses two further aspects: health and ecology. The Minergie Construction Quality Assurance programme (MQS Construction) ensures systematic inspection of Minergie-relevant building components during the construction phase, with results documented on an ongoing basis.