A history rich in references

Planair SA was founded in 1985 in a green valley in western Switzerland, in La Sagne, by Pierre Renaud, mechanical engineering graduate of the Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (EPFZ). 

Whether as an assistant at the EPFZ Zurich or later as a collaborator in a renowned firm of architects, P. Renaud soon concerned himself with optimizing the relationship between energy, architecture and planning, at a time when energy conservation and renewable energy only interested a handful of militants. With Planair, he began to promote and implement them.

The first clients were the local authorities which were aware of the links between energy and land-use planning, and pioneers eager to heat their building in an eco-friendly way. Later, architects entrusted Planair with major heating and ventilation projects. Federal mandates, for the Federal Office of Energy in particular, and the development of services for industry accelerated Planair’s growth, as well as a first contract with the European Union in 1999.

As a result, Planair adapted its structures: Changes to an S.A. (public limited company) in 2002 and in 2005, strengthening the governing board, opening subsidiaries (in Yverdon in 2009, Delémont in 2010 and Valdahon, France, in 2010) and acquiring stakes in other companies (Contren SA to 26% since 2008, Naturelec SA to 15% since 2009).

Renewable energy and energy conservation, once a peripheral concern, are now a major sector. Planair has grown steadily and has now more than 40 employees (half with higher education) maintaining strong competitiveness on four sites, serving local, regional, national or international mandates.