Things to remember :

  • The ban on oil-fired boilers only applies to new buildings or rebuilds.
  • Projects applying for permits after December 31, 2025 must incorporate 35% renewable energy (or 15% according to the SUT).
  • Existing oil-fired boilers can continue to operate, provided they are properly maintained.
  • Today, photovoltaic panels and heat pumps represent the simplest solutions for meeting the new obligations.
  • To anticipate future restrictions and reduce your bills, we recommend that you install your solar system before 2026.

From January 1, 2026a new rule comes into force: in new buildings, it will be mandatory to use at least 35% renewable energy. This means that a significant proportion of heating or hot water production will have to come from clean energy sources such as the sun or external heat.

This means that an important new measure has been added: the ban on oil-fired boilers for new or rebuilt buildings. Oil and coal can no longer be used to heat these buildings.

This decision comes from an Order of the Walloon Government dated June 5, 2025, which modifies the PEB rules. It applies to all projects for which a permit application will be submitted after December 31, 2025.

Which buildings are affected by the ban on oil-fired boilers?

The new 2026 rule banning oil-fired boilers affects :

  • Visit new residential buildings (PER) or equivalent
  • Visit new non-residential buildings (PEN) or assimilated to new
  • All buildings to be built or rebuilt that can no longer be equipped with an oil- or coal-fired system

This means that all new buildings will have to be designed from the outset with renewable solutions in mind.

What are the solutions for meeting the renewable energy requirement?

From 2026, all new buildings will have to incorporate a mandatory share of renewable energy. Currently, the most efficient options are : installing solar panels and the use of heat pumps offered by Novitra.

Together, they can completely replace a fossil-fuel system and anticipate the ban on oil-fired boilers.

What is the renewable energy requirement?

The renewable requirement stipulates that a new building must produce part of its energy from renewable sources. The exact percentage depends on the total usable floor area (TUF):

  • for a SUT of less than 1000 m², thethe building must incorporate at least 35% renewable energy ;
  • for a SUT of 1000 m² or moreit must reach at least 15%.calculated according to the PEB method.

The idea is simple: the more a building generates its own energy, the more it complies with regulations. In this context, the installation of photovoltaic panels panels is the best solution, as the solar electricity generated on site is fully recognized as renewable energy and contributes directly to meeting these thresholds.

NB: The SUT (Total Useful Area) corresponds to all the interior surfaces of the building that are actually usable, i.e. spaces where an activity can be carried out or which can be heated. It excludes, for example, unfinished cellars, non-accessible attics or very specific technical rooms.

What if I already have an oil-fired boiler?

If your home already has an oil-fired boiler, you don’t need to shut it down. to shut it down.. The 2026 ban applies only to new installations in new or rebuilt buildings. This means that existing boilers can continue to operate, as long as they are maintained and in good condition.

On the other hand, we strongly advise against investing in a new oil-fired boiler, as its installation will be prohibited for all projects for which a permit application is submitted after December 31, 2025.

Homeowners wishing to anticipate future restrictions are therefore well advised to turn to renewable solutions such as solar panels or heat pumps.

Case study

Small building < 1000 m²

A retail outlet 300 m² must comply with the 35% renewable energy. To comply with this requirement, it decided to install a series of photovoltaic panels panels on the roof, capable of producing a large proportion of the electricity used for lighting, ventilation and everyday appliances.
To complete the production and reach the required percentage more easily, the owner adds a small solar thermal system to heat domestic hot water.

Result : the building complies with regulations, reduces its energy costs and improves its overall performance without major work.

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Large building ≥ 1000 m²

An industrial hall of 1500 m² is required to integrate at least 15% renewable energy in its operations. The manager decides to exploit the large roof surface available to install a large large-scale photovoltaic systemcapable of covering a significant proportion of the electricity consumed by the plant’s machinery, offices and technical equipment.

Thanks to this high-capacity solar installation, the building easily achieves the required percentage, while significantly reducing its electricity costs and improving its environmental image with customers and partners.

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FAQ – Oil boiler ban

Is an oil-fired boiler totally forbidden?

Yes for new buildings from 2026. Old installations can continue to operate.

Can I replace my existing oil-fired boiler?

Replacement is highly limited. It is advisable to consider a renewable alternative.

Does the rule apply only to houses?

No, it also applies to non-residential buildings.

Do I have to act before 2026?

Yes, projects submitted after December 31, 2025 will have to comply with the new rule.

Go solar now with Vectura

The ban on oil-fired boilers marks an important turning point for all new buildings from 2026. To avoid these constraints, reduce your bills and comply with the new regulations, you can use photovoltaic panels remain the simplest, most cost-effective and most sustainable solution.

Vectura can help you make the transition! Make an appointment today for your solar estimate and prepare your building for tomorrow’s standards..