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Thanks to Signa-Terre’s Energy Monitoring, Rentes Genevoises Reduce CO₂ Emissions of their Real Estate Porfolio by 50%

February 24, 2025

A visionary collaboration for a greener future: Rentes Genevoises and Signa-Terre. In a world undergoing an energy transition, achieving sustainable transformation requires strategic, informed choices and consistent, long-term commitment. Since 2009, Rentes Genevoises and Signa-Terre, part of the Wüest Partner Group, have worked together with trust and synergy, demonstrating that major challenges can be overcome collaboratively.

Due to this collaboration, Rentes Genevoises have been enabled to certify their real estate portfolio under ISO 50001 a decade ago — marking a European first — and to reduce its energy consumption by 50%. This tangible result underscores the success of their shared initiative.

Rentes Genevoises: A Model of Commitment

Since 1894, Rentes Genevoises have protected and supported generations with robust pension solutions. Their real estate portfolio, comprising 39 buildings primarily in Geneva and valued at CHF 574.4 million, lies at the heart of their mission. Managing this portfolio requires significant investment and the ability to anticipate legislative, economic, and societal changes. With annual investments of CHF 10 to 12 million dedicated to maintaining and renovating their buildings, Rentes Genevoises exemplify a model of responsibility and dedication essential for the energy transition.

Signa-Terre: Trusted Guidance and Support

Since 2009, Signa-Terre has been assisting Rentes Genevoises with their real estate strategy, leveraging its expertise in energy management and resource optimization. Through:

  • detailed energy audits based on certified data collection processes and actual consumption,
  • real-time monitoring solutions,
  • and the development of decarbonization pathways,

Signa-Terre provides actionable insights and recommendations. These tools enable the transformation of regulatory constraints—such as the 60% CO2 emissions reduction target by 2030 — into innovative opportunities.

Ultimately, the primary credit goes to Rentes Genevoises. Their commitment and willingness to invest in ambitious renovations bring these solutions to life. For example, through consistent efforts, they improved the energy efficiency of a listed building’s envelope by 25% — a significant achievement in such a complex context.

A Sustainable Collaboration Focused on the Future

The long-standing relationship between Rentes Genevoises and Signa-Terre is built on a delicate balance: the strategic vision and investment capacity of Rentes Genevoises paired with Signa-Terre’s technical expertise and strategic analysis to maximize the impact of these actions. Together, they have developed a holistic approach combining environmental performance, economic viability, and the anticipation of future generational needs. Their annual investments of CHF 10 to 12 million for property maintenance and renovation aim not only to meet current standards but also to anticipate future legal and technological developments. This continuous transformation process integrates a long-term sustainability vision. Pierre Zumwald, CEO of Rentes Genevoises, remarks: “Our relationship has been built on dialogue over all these years since 2009. It’s a true success”

Find out more in the interview (in French):

Building a Model for Tomorrow

This partnership proves that real estate can be more than a mere financial asset — it can be a lever for transformation toward a greener and more equitable society. Together, Rentes Genevoises and Signa-Terre demonstrate how a shared vision, combined with strategic guidance and operational commitment, can address the challenges of the energy transition and pave the way for an inspiring future.

Signa-Terre

Signa-Terre AG has successfully established itself in the field of collecting and processing energy consumption data from properties and in planning refurbishment cycles. The Wüest Partner Group owns a majority stake in Signa-Terre.

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