why the surge in prices this winter? What price to expect for the stere?

Firewood, once considered an economical solution to keeping your home warm, is experiencing a significant increase in prices in recent years. This increase directly impacts the millions of French people who use this fuel to heat themselves during the winter. Let's examine the reasons for this surge in prices and its consequences on household budgets.

Factors responsible for the increase in the price of wood

Several elements contribute to the increase in the cost of firewood:

• The explosion in demand, linked to the rise in prices of alternative energies
• The increase in transport costs, due to soaring fuel prices
• Climatic hazards affecting production and supply
• Forest management policies influencing wood availability

These factors combined create a tension on the firewood marketleading to a general increase in prices. In 2024, the price of a cubic meter of wood will now fluctuate between 70 and 120 euros on average, with significant variations depending on various criteria.

Firewood prices vary considerably between regions in France, reflecting disparities in local supply and demand. In certain urban areas or regions far from forests, prices can even exceed 150 euros per stere.

Choose and buy your firewood wisely

To optimize your purchase of firewood, it is essential to take several factors into account:

The type of wood : Species such as oak, beech or hornbeam are prized for their high calorific value. They produce intense and lasting heat, while generating little ash. Soft woods, such as birch or poplar, are less expensive but burn more quickly.

Humidity level : Dry wood (humidity level less than 20%) offers better heat output and avoids clogging of installations. It is essential to check this parameter with the supplier.

The purchase period : To benefit from the best prices, it is recommended to buy your wood in spring or summer, outside the period of high demand. This strategy also allows the wood to dry properly before use.

Evaluate your firewood needs

The quantity of wood needed to heat a home depends on several factors:

1. The surface area of ​​housing : From 3 to 5 cubic meters per year for less than 50 m², 6 to 10 cubic meters for around 100 m², and 10 to 15 cubic meters for more than 150 m².
2. L’thermal insulation : A well-insulated house can consume up to 30% less wood.
3. The type of wood and efficiency of the heating system : Hardwoods and modern, high-efficiency stoves help reduce consumption.
4. The climate of the region : Colder areas naturally require more wood.

Despite the rise in prices, wood remains the cheapest fuel. In 2023, according to the SDES, wood cost on average 7.15 cents per kWh, compared to 20.67 cents for electricity. This significant difference explains the continued appeal for this method of heating, even in the face of increasing prices.

Adapting to the new economic situation of wood heating

Faced with rising prices, consumers must adopt new strategies. Group purchasing, for example, allows you to benefit from more advantageous prices. It is also a good idea to compare offers from different suppliers, whether local sawmills, forestry cooperatives or specialist online sales platforms.

Investing in a more efficient heating system, such as a pellet or dual combustion stove, can pay off in the long term. These devices consume up to 30% less wood than older models or open fireplaces.

Finally, improving the thermal insulation of housing remains a relevant solution to reduce its wood consumption and, therefore, its heating budget. This approach is part of a broader perspective of energy efficiency and reduction of the carbon footprint.