There are no small savings. In Argentan, sub-prefecture of Orne, Nicolas Thuillier tracks down the slightest energy overconsumption of the city and the Norman intercommunality. Electricity, water, heating, air conditioning, nothing escapes him, and for good reason. This is the heart of his profession, with the title a bit abstruse: “efficient flow”. A little-known profession because it is emerging, but essential to successfully carry out a decarbonization policy. “Its role is less kilowatt hours, euros and greenhouse gases”, summarizes Josselin Sourisseau, its manager as director of the Climate Emergency service (see box below).
On a daily basis, Nicolas Thuillier multiplies the actions of sobriety and energy efficiency. Heat balance and optimization of infrastructure temperatures, work to improve equipment, analysis and monitoring of the electricity and gas budget… All means are good to reduce bills. Concrete illustration: last year, he had the attics, floors and pipes of the wood heating network of several communal buildings insulated. Everything was entirely financed by the system of energy saving certificates. He also replaced the lighting in the media library and a gymnasium with LED bulbs. Result: 59,000 euros in annual savings and 10% less electricity consumption for Argentan.
To track down waste, do not hesitate to rummage in underestimated places. “By simply reviewing our subscriptions and the power of the 500 electrical contracts for the 150 public buildings in the community, we have earned 23,000 euros per year”, rejoices Nicolas Thuillier. “For a long time, the energy bill was a blind spot. But today, with soaring prices, everyone is looking to save money!” remarks Frédéric Léveillé, mayor (PS) of Argentan and president of the community of communes.
It is still necessary to have the skills in this area. The city of 14,000 inhabitants had been looking for a flow saver since… 2017 and it took no less than four years to find a solution. A three-year provision agreement was signed with the departmental energy union, TE61, Nicolas Thuillier’s employer. A largely profitable investment, which Josselin Sourisseau is still pleased with: “In the future, this job will become obvious for all communities”. Word of expert.
The climate emergency is a priority
The small town in Normandy has set up a service specializing in this area
In Argentan, Josselin Sourisseau is responsible for a vast department which brings together technical services, town planning, land use planning and, since 2021, a “Climate emergency and sustainable development” service. “This title reflects as much a political will for immediate action as a territorial marketing strategy”, underlines Frédéric Léveillé, mayor of Argentan and president of the intercommunality.
A rewarding cocktail in terms of attractiveness: “We have never received so many quality CVs!” testifies Josselin Sourisseau. Beyond the flow economist, his team brings together positions of energy transition manager, social and solidarity economist and project managers in connection with local food, biodiversity and territorial ecosystems.
“If we want to have a real territorial ambition, we must have a global vision and not think only of the energy component”, specifies the city councilor. Development of short circuits, preservation of wetlands, creation of circular economy networks between private and public actors, local energy cooperative… Argentan is hitting all the stops.