The article « PV revenue: evaluating revenue from electricity sales » explores how solar energy producers can better estimate their earnings. It covers the different economic models, costs to consider, and methods for optimising the profitability of their installations. It’s a practical guide to understanding how solar electricity is monetised.

Key Points to Remember

• Understanding the economic models, whether it’s selling all of one’s production, the surplus, or moving towards self-consumption, is the first step to estimating PV revenue.
• Evaluating the profitability of a photovoltaic installation requires analysing initial investment costs, recurring operating expenses, and precisely estimating the expected revenue from electricity sales.
• Revenue sources for a PV operator vary: feed-in tariff for small installations, direct market sale for larger ones, and potentially remuneration supplements or capacity market sales.
• Self-consumption generates direct savings on the electricity bill, which are added to potential revenue from surplus sales, positively impacting the overall profitability of the PV project.
• It is important to clearly identify all costs, including those for connection to the electricity grid, and to understand the taxation applicable to photovoltaic income for sound financial management of the project.

Understanding the Economic Models for Electricity Sales

The sale of electricity produced by a photovoltaic installation involves different economic models, adapted to the size of the project and its objectives. A clear understanding of the chosen framework allows for a precise estimation of the profitability of the PV investment.

Sale of all or surplus production

Two main approaches exist:

• Total sale: all electricity produced is injected into the grid and sold at a contractually fixed tariff (generally for small to medium-sized residential or agricultural installations).
• Surplus sale: only the portion of production not consumed locally is sold, with the remainder used for self-consumption.
• The choice between these two models depends on the operator’s own energy needs, their cost structure, and local regulations.

This model, often used in collective or shared project frameworks, can prove advantageous in terms of revenue stability, as illustrated by the sale of surplus with an inflation-proof guaranteed tariff.

Feed-in Tariff and Market Sale

In France, the regulated feed-in tariff is often reserved for small installations (up to 500 kWp).

For large capacities, direct sale on the free market is necessary:

• Feed-in tariff: price fixed over a long period (e.g., 20 years), offering visibility and guaranteed revenue for small producers.
• Market sale: variable price depending on supply, demand, and economic conditions. This introduces additional risk but can offer opportunities for higher revenue during price peaks.
• Over-the-counter contracts (PPAs): possibility of direct sale to a consumer or aggregator, with tariff negotiation.

Model	System Size	Revenue Stability	Price Volatility
Feed-in Tariff	Small (<500 kWp)	Very Stable	Low
Market/PPA	Large (>500 kWp)	Medium/High	High

Remuneration Supplement and Capacity Market

For large-scale installations, mechanisms such as remuneration supplements are added:

• Remuneration supplement: a premium paid to compensate for the difference between the market price and a reference tariff, thus ensuring a minimum level of income. It primarily applies to installations over 500 kWp.
• Capacity market: not very significant in photovoltaics, but in some cases, it allows for valuing the availability of production beyond the energy sold.

Economic models are constantly evolving due to regulatory changes. It is recommended to analyse each option in light of one’s own expectations, and always to study the tax and contractual consequences before committing.

For local authorities and operators wishing to delve deeper into the regulatory framework, a consultation on sector obligations and tariffs is essential. You will also find the benefits of certain shared models in the discussion on collective self-consumption and surplus resale.

Evaluating the Profitability of a Photovoltaic Installation

To determine if a photovoltaic installation is profitable, several expenditure and revenue items must be carefully examined. This process requires rigour to ensure that the initial investment will be recovered and that a profit will be generated in the long term.

Analysis of Investment Costs

The first item to consider is the initial investment, often called CAPEX. This includes the equipment itself (panels, inverters, mounting structures) and its installation. Installer quotes are generally expressed in euros per Watt-peak (€/Wp). This price varies depending on the installation’s power and the type of mounting. For example, for a 3 kWp rooftop installation, the average cost in 2024 was between €6,500 and €8,000 (incl. VAT). For higher capacities, the cost per Wp decreases. Connection fees to the electricity grid must also be added, which can represent a significant portion of the budget, sometimes up to 25% of the total investment, although the average is closer to 10%. Prior technical studies (feasibility, structure, etc.) can also be added, ranging from a few thousand to several tens of thousands of euros for large projects.

Installation Type	Power	Average Price (€ incl. VAT/Wp)	Average Price (€ incl. VAT)
Rooftop	< 3 kWp	2.5 to 3.0	€7,500 (for 3 kWp)
Rooftop	3 to 9 kWp	2.0 to 2.5	€16,000 (for 9 kWp)
Ground-mounted	1 to 10 MWp	0.8 to 1.0	Variable

Considering Operating Costs

Beyond the initial investment, recurring costs must not be forgotten. These generally include equipment maintenance (panel cleaning, inverter checks), insurance to cover risks (theft, degradation, damage), and sometimes system management or monitoring fees. These costs are generally lower than the initial investment, but they directly impact annual profitability. It is advisable to budget annually for these operations to ensure the longevity and efficiency of the installation. Good maintenance helps ensure that the installation’s performance remains optimal.

It is important not to underestimate operating costs. Even if a photovoltaic installation is known for its low maintenance, periodic checks and panel cleaning may be necessary to maintain optimal performance and avoid production losses. These costs, although often moderate, must be included in the profitability calculation.

Estimating Revenue from Electricity Sales

Revenue primarily comes from the sale of electricity produced. Two main models exist: the sale of all production or the sale of unconsumed surplus. Sale tariffs are fixed by purchase contracts, often over a long period (20 years), offering some visibility on income. The amount of revenue directly depends on the quantity of electricity injected into the grid, which itself is a function of the installation’s power and sunshine. For example, a 9 kWp installation can produce approximately 151,000 kWh in the first year, depending on local conditions. For a precise evaluation, simulation tools like the one offered by Swissolar can be very useful. It is possible to consult the price ranges in €/Wp to better understand the initial costs that determine future profitability.

Revenue can be estimated by multiplying the volume of electricity injected by the current feed-in tariff. It is also possible to sell all production, which simplifies management and ensures stable income thanks to fixed feed-in tariffs, as described by the total or surplus production sale model. Estimating photovoltaic yield is a key step in projecting this revenue.

Determining Revenue Sources for PV Operators

For a photovoltaic system operator, revenue primarily comes from the sale of electricity produced. The way this sale is structured largely depends on the size of the installation and the contractual choices. It is important to understand these different avenues to optimise the profitability of one’s project. Good planning ensures that expenses are covered by revenue, and this, in the long term.

Feed-in Tariff for Small Installations

For small-scale installations, generally those with a power output of less than 500 kW, the most common mechanism is the guaranteed feed-in tariff. This tariff is set by regulatory authorities and ensures stable remuneration for electricity injected into the grid. It offers valuable financial predictability, as the selling price is known in advance over a long period. This greatly simplifies the development of a solid business plan, as cash flows are easier to anticipate. The amount of this revenue is directly linked to the quantity of electricity actually injected, as measured by the meter.

Direct Market Sale for Large Installations

Larger-scale installations, exceeding 500 kW, often have access to direct electricity market sales. Here, the selling price is not fixed but fluctuates according to market conditions, which vary by day and hour. Another option is to negotiate a fixed tariff with an energy supplier or aggregator. This approach requires a more detailed analysis of market dynamics and more active management to maximise gains. It is possible to be supported by aggregators who group production from several sites to negotiate better contracts. The objective is to sell electricity at the best time, taking into account periods of high demand or high prices.

Diversification of Potential Revenue

Beyond the simple sale of electricity, other revenue sources can be explored, particularly for installations with a power output greater than 500 kW. The remuneration supplement is a premium added to market revenues, aiming to ensure that the producer reaches a reference tariff agreed upon during a tender application. There is also the capacity market, although its valuation is often limited for solar due to its intermittent production. Exploring these different avenues allows for building a more resilient and potentially more lucrative economic model. It is advisable to consult the application documents available on the CRE website to better understand these mechanisms.

It is essential to properly evaluate the profitability of one’s photovoltaic installation by considering all possible revenue streams. A good understanding of market mechanisms and support schemes is key to optimising gains and ensuring the project’s sustainability. The use of simulation tools can greatly help in projecting these revenues and comparing different sales strategies. A well-funded project can self-finance through its own revenues, which is a major objective for many operators. You can use tools like « evaluate my quote » to compare the economic value of different installation configurations evaluate my quote.

Analysing Savings Generated by Self-Consumption

Self-consumption is when you directly consume the electricity you produce with your solar panels. This helps reduce your electricity bill, as you buy less energy from the supplier. It’s a smart way to save money while using clean energy. In fact, every kilowatt-hour (kWh) you consume directly saves you from paying the price of the kWh purchased from the grid. This has a direct impact on your energy budget.

Calculating Savings on the Electricity Bill

To estimate your savings, you need to look at how much electricity you produce and how much you consume on-site. If you produce 3000 kWh per year and consume 1000 kWh directly, you save the cost of those 1000 kWh. For example, if the price per kWh is €0.15, that’s €150 in savings per year. This is a simplification, as taxes and fixed charges also need to be considered, but it gives an idea. For a more precise evaluation, you can use online tools that simulate your consumption and production. These tools help you understand the real impact on your bill. You can find simulators to help you evaluate your quote [here](evaluer mon devis).

Impact of the Self-Consumption Rate

The self-consumption rate is the percentage of your solar production that you consume yourself. The higher this rate, the greater your savings. For example, if you have a rate of 50%, you save twice as much as if you had a rate of 25%. Several factors influence this rate:

• The alignment between your solar production and your consumption times.
• The presence of a storage system (battery) to use solar energy when the sun is not shining.
• Managing your electrical appliances so they operate when you are producing electricity.

The goal is to maximise self-consumption to reduce dependence on the electricity grid and associated costs as much as possible.

Economic Models of Self-Consumption

1. Total self-consumption: You consume all your production, without injecting anything into the grid. This requires a specific agreement with Enedis (CACSI). This is the model that maximises direct savings on the bill.
2. Self-consumption with surplus sale: You consume part of your production and sell the rest to the grid. This is an interesting model, especially for small installations (<100 kWp), as it may qualify for a self-consumption premium. Connection procedures differ depending on the choice made [here](modes de raccordement en autoconsommation).
3. Total production sale: You inject everything you produce into the grid and sell this electricity at a guaranteed tariff for 20 years. This model does not generate direct savings on the bill, but rather revenue from the sale.

Choosing the right model depends on your situation, your electricity needs, and your financial objectives. Self-consumption helps reduce your carbon footprint, for example, by decreasing your CO² emissions compared to purchasing conventional electricity [by up to 50%](Using solar panels for your energy consumption can reduce CO² emissions by up to 50% compared to purchasing electricity from traditional sources. This highlights the environmental benefits of solar self-consumption.).

Developing a Business Plan for a Photovoltaic Project

Developing a solid business plan is an essential step for any photovoltaic project. It involves structuring your approach, anticipating financial flows, and presenting a coherent case to potential funders or partners. This document serves as a roadmap, guiding you through the different phases of the project, from initial investment to operation.

Cash Flow Monitoring

Cash flow monitoring is at the heart of a solar project’s financial management. It allows for visualising expected money inflows and outflows over a given period. Good cash management helps you anticipate financing needs and optimise overall profitability. It is important to detail expenditure items (investment, maintenance, insurance) and revenue items (electricity sales, potential aid).

Coverage of Expenses by Revenue

The main objective is to ensure that the revenue generated by the sale of electricity produced not only covers operating and maintenance costs, but also the repayment of any loans and generates a profit. A detailed analysis of feed-in tariffs or market prices, combined with a precise estimation of production, is necessary to validate the economic viability of the project. The lifespan of the equipment and any tariff re-evaluations must also be considered.

Use of Simulation Tools

To refine your business plan, the use of simulation tools is highly recommended. These software programmes allow for modelling different scenarios (production variations, energy price evolution, regulatory changes) and evaluating their impact on profitability. They help test the project’s sensitivity to risks and identify optimisation levers. You can find business plan templates, for example, on the CRE website to help you structure your projections. It is also possible to consult tools like « Evaluate my quote » to better understand initial costs. The estimation of connection costs, which can vary significantly, is a key point to integrate into these simulations, and online tools allow you to test your connection.

Identifying Electricity Grid Connection Costs

Connecting your photovoltaic installation to the electricity grid is an essential step and an expenditure item to anticipate. Associated costs can vary considerably depending on several factors, making a precise estimate crucial for your project planning.

Variability of Connection Fees

Connection fees cover the material elements and work required to connect your system to the public grid. This includes the installation of meters, circuit breakers, cables, and other equipment. For self-consumption installations with surplus sales, Enedis generally covers these initial costs, bringing them down to €0. However, for projects aiming for total electricity sales, these fees can range from €350 to €1200, not including any potential surcharges.

• The connection cost varies greatly from one configuration to another.

Impact of Grid Extension Works

In some cases, the power of your installation or its distance from existing infrastructure may require grid extension or reinforcement works. These interventions, although sometimes essential to guarantee supply stability, can represent a significant additional cost. It is therefore crucial to assess whether these works are required and what their financial impact will be on the economic viability of your project. Projects where the connection cost exceeds 25% of the total investment are often abandoned due to this additional burden.

It is important to fully understand the billing scope and obtain cost estimates before committing. A preliminary technical study can help identify these potential expenses.

Connection Simulation Tools

To help you anticipate these expenses, simulation tools are available. Enedis, in particular, offers a feature on its customer area allowing you to test your connection and obtain an initial estimate of the approximate cost. Furthermore, online economic simulators, such as the one offered by the CRE, can help you evaluate the economic value of your installation based on different sales models. These tools are valuable aids for refining your budget and comparing installer offers. You can consult the billing note for own works for connection to the grid managed by Enedis for more details on fixed costs and those determined by quote. For a more precise estimate, it is advisable to consult the grid connection costs which may vary according to the zones and desired power.

Here are some cost examples to give you an idea:

Connection Type	Zone	Power	Estimated Cost
Three-phase	ZFA	36 kVA	€1,809.00
Without metering	ZFB	3 kVA	€1,875.00
With metering	ZFB	3 kVA	€1,850.00

For less well-served areas, the cost for a Zone 1 connection can vary between €1200 and €1500, with possible surcharges depending on the exact location [0b65]. It is therefore advisable to inquire thoroughly with the grid operator to obtain a precise quote adapted to your specific situation.

Understanding the Taxation of Photovoltaic Income

The taxation of income from the sale of photovoltaic electricity primarily depends on the power of your installation and your status. It is important to fully understand these rules to optimise your situation.

Classification of Industrial and Commercial Income

Sums received from the sale of electricity produced by your installation are generally considered Industrial and Commercial Profits (BIC). This classification applies whether you sell all of your production or only the surplus.

Application of Tax Allowances

For installations with a power output of 3 kWp or less, good news: you benefit from a total exemption from income tax, as well as the General Social Contribution (CSG) and the Contribution to the Repayment of Social Debt (CRDS). This is a significant advantage for small domestic systems.

Above 3 kWp, electricity sales income is taxable. However, a tax allowance of 71% is applied to the amount of this income. There is a minimum threshold of €305 for this allowance. If your sales income is below this amount, you are not taxed. If your income exceeds €305, only 29% of your gains will be subject to income tax, according to your marginal tax bracket. To declare this income, you must use the Cerfa 2042C Pro form, filling in the boxes corresponding to taxable income related to the sale of goods.

Here is a simplified overview of taxation according to power:

Installation Power	Tax Regime for Sales Income
3 kWp or less	Exemption from income tax, CSG, CRDS
Greater than 3 kWp	BIC taxation with 71% allowance (min €305)

Social Contributions on Gains

If the taxable income after allowance exceeds €61, it is also subject to a social contribution of 17.2%. If this taxable income is less than €61, social contributions do not apply. It is important to note that for installations over 3 kWp, income may be subject to specific tax regimes, particularly if turnover exceeds micro-enterprise thresholds. In this case, it is advisable to inquire about available options, such as the simplified actual regime, for tax management adapted to your project.

It is essential to clearly distinguish between income from electricity sales and savings made on your own electricity bill through self-consumption. The latter are not taxable.

Optimising the Valuation of Electricity Sales Revenue

To maximise revenue from your photovoltaic installation, it is essential to fully understand how your production is valued. Revenue directly depends on the quantity of electricity you inject into the grid and the tariffs that apply. A good sales strategy can make a notable difference to the overall profitability of your project.

Proportionality of Revenue to kWh Injected

The basic principle is simple: the more kilowatt-hours (kWh) you inject into the grid, the higher your revenue will be. This means that the performance of your panels and their proper functioning are paramount. It is therefore necessary to ensure that the installation is well-sized and maintained to produce the maximum possible energy.

Importance of Panel Peak Power

Peak power, expressed in Watt-peak (Wp), is a key measure of your solar panels’ production capacity. Higher peak power means that each panel can generate more electricity under optimal conditions. When choosing your equipment, comparing the peak power per panel and per euro spent is a relevant approach.

Comparison of Quotes by Cost in €/Wp

To evaluate the relevance of a quote, it is recommended not to rely solely on the total price, but to relate it to the installed peak power. The cost in euros per Watt-peak (€/Wp) offers a standardised measure that allows for objective comparison of different offers. This helps identify the most advantageous proposals in terms of value for money.

• Calculation of cost per Wp: Total quote price / Total installation power in Wp.
• Comparative analysis: Look for quotes presenting the lowest cost per Wp, while taking into account the quality of the equipment offered.
• Additional considerations: Don’t forget to include connection fees and warranties in your analysis.

The valuation of electricity injected into the grid is a central element of a photovoltaic installation’s profitability. Understanding pricing mechanisms and optimising production are essential steps to ensure a satisfactory return on investment. It is also possible to diversify one’s income, for example by exploring models such as collective self-consumption [34df].

For a more precise vision of potential profitability, tools like the one offered to evaluate your quote can be very useful. They allow for simulating expected revenue based on different sales scenarios, such as surplus sales or total sales [c000].

Considering Potential Additional Costs in PV Projects

When planning a photovoltaic project, it is essential to anticipate expenses that could exceed initial estimates. These additional costs can arise from various factors, ranging from technological choices to the specific characteristics of the installation site, as well as necessary complementary works. Rigorous management of these elements helps avoid unpleasant surprises and ensures the financial viability of the project. It is important to understand that the cost of an installation can vary considerably. For example, the average price of a rooftop overlay installation for a power output of 9 kWp was between €16,000 and €17,500 (incl. VAT) in 2023, including installation and procedures, but excluding grants. These figures give an idea of the possible variations, and it is important to inquire about current prices for an accurate estimate. Quotes are often expressed in €/Wp, an indicator that decreases with increasing installation power, making large projects more economical per unit of installed power. For example, for ground-mounted installations over 10 MWp, the cost can drop to between €0.7 and €0.8 (excl. VAT)/Wp, while for rooftop installations under 3 kWp, it is between €2.5 and €3.0 (incl. VAT)/Wp. These differences highlight the importance of carefully targeting the project size and comparing offers. It is also important to note that costs can be higher in certain regions, such as northern France, where they can increase by up to 30%.

Technological Options for Modules

The choice of equipment can influence the overall budget. Opting for high-efficiency modules, which can reach approximately 22% efficiency, or modules with specific treatments such as anti-reflection (useful near airports), will result in a higher acquisition cost. Similarly, the integration of technologies such as micro-inverters or power optimisers, or the addition of a monitoring system with a data logger, represents an additional investment. Agri-photovoltaic systems, which combine agricultural production and electricity generation, may also involve additional costs related to their specific design. The addition of a storage battery or a display screen to visualise real-time production are other examples of options that increase the initial budget.

Site-Specific Characteristics of the Installation

The location where the installation will be implemented has a direct impact on costs. Land preparation work, such as clearing, may be necessary. If the subsoil presents particular constraints, such as the presence of a water table or an old landfill site, it could be more expensive to carry out anchoring. In this case, ballasting the structures could be an alternative, but this can also lead to additional costs. Landscape integration, for example for site fencing, may also be among the expenses to be planned. Prior technical studies must also be considered. A feasibility study, which evaluates technical and financial aspects, can cost between €1000 and €2500. A structural study to check the resistance of the framework can vary from €1000 to €5000. For ground-mounted parks, more in-depth studies such as a soil study, a hydrogeological study, or an environmental impact study may be required, representing budgets ranging from €25,000 to €40,000 for the latter. These studies are important for anticipating potential problems and ensuring project compliance. It is possible to test your connection online via the tools provided by Enedis to get a first idea of the costs.

Complementary Works and Financing

Beyond the direct costs related to panels and their installation, other expenses may arise. These may include improvement or repair work on the building supporting the installation, such as roof waterproofing or reinforcement of a framework. Costs related to the removal of existing elements (chimney, old roof) or the upgrading of systems such as smoke extraction may also be added. The cost of connection to the electricity grid is a variable expense, which can represent between 0 and 25% of the total investment, with an average around 10%. If this cost exceeds 25%, the project is often abandoned. It is therefore crucial to properly evaluate this item. Large-scale projects may also require legal advice for the preparation of administrative files, such as building permits or tender applications. The way the project is financed can also have an impact on the overall cost, particularly through financial charges. It is therefore important to carefully compare the different financing options available to find the one that best suits your project. To get an idea of connection costs, it is possible to consult the billing note published by Enedis, which details fixed costs and those determined by quote. Analysis of CRE tender results can also provide indications on project competitiveness and market prices, taking into account the volume of power requested and participation conditions. The cost of the cheapest projects is approximately €600 per kWp, while more complex installations can reach approximately €1,100 per kWp. Understanding tender results is therefore a key step in evaluating profitability.

Referring to CRE Resources for Evaluation

For a precise evaluation of your photovoltaic installations’ revenue, the French Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE) provides valuable information and tools. These resources help you understand remuneration mechanisms and estimate your future income.

The CRE publishes an annual evaluation of public service energy charges. These figures give an idea of the overall costs of supporting renewable energies, which can indirectly influence feed-in tariffs or remuneration supplements. For example, the evaluation for 2024 concerned €696 million in provisional charges, an amount that can evolve depending on the energy policies in place. It is important to follow these publications to anticipate market developments.

Re-evaluation of Charges in an Energy Crisis Situation

During periods of high energy price volatility, the CRE may carry out exceptional re-evaluations. These adjustments aim to take into account degraded market conditions and their impact on support schemes. In the past, re-evaluations have allowed for adjusting the amounts to be compensated, as was the case in 2022 when charges were revised downwards following the rise in wholesale prices. These situations show the importance of staying informed of CRE communications.

Access to Application Documents

The CRE also offers useful documents for operators, such as business plan templates. These templates, available for feed-in tariffs or remuneration supplements, are practical tools for structuring your project and estimating its profitability. You will find frameworks for analysing your costs and projected revenue. In addition, guides to help with installer selection and operation are available to support you in managing your installation. You can consult the documentation area on the CRE website to access these resources.

• Understand feed-in tariffs and remuneration supplements.
• Use business plan templates to structure your project.
• Stay informed of the CRE’s annual publications on public service charges.

It is advisable to regularly consult the CRE website for the latest information regarding tariffs and support schemes, as these can be revised quarterly, as indicated by the October 2021 tariff decree for installations up to 100 kWp. These revisions take into account market developments and renewable energy development objectives. Consult the deliberations

To properly understand how to evaluate your solar projects, it is useful to look at what the CRE says. They have clear information to help you. If you want to know more about the rules and aid, visit our website to discover all available resources.

Conclusion

To properly evaluate the potential revenue of your photovoltaic installation, it is important to consider several factors. There is, of course, the sale of electricity, whether it’s all of it or just the surplus. But you must not forget the savings you make on your own bill if you consume part of what you produce. All of this must be put into a business plan, much like a budget, to see if the project is profitable. You need to carefully compare the costs, such as equipment and connection costs, with the expected revenue. Using simulation tools can really help clarify things before you start.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is revenue from solar electricity sales calculated?

The money you earn from selling your electricity directly depends on the quantity of electricity you inject into the grid. The more kilowatt-hours (kWh) you produce and sell, the greater your earnings. It’s like selling apples: the more you have, the more you can sell and earn money.

What is self-consumption and how does it generate savings?

Self-consumption is when you use some or all of the electricity you produce with your solar panels yourself. Instead of selling it, you consume it directly. This means you don’t have to buy that electricity from your usual supplier, which reduces the amount of your bill. It’s like growing your own vegetables: you no longer need to buy them from the supermarket.

What is a business plan and why is it important?

A business plan is a bit like a financial logbook for your solar project. It allows you to track all the money coming in (revenue) and all the money going out (expenses, such as buying panels and installing them) over time. The goal is to ensure that the money coming in is sufficient to cover the outgoings, and ideally, that there’s a little extra left over.

Why can grid connection costs vary?

The cost of connecting your solar installation to the electricity grid can change. This depends on the complexity of the connection, the distance from the existing grid, and any additional work required. Sometimes, new lines even need to be built, which increases the price. It’s a bit like the cost of connecting water to your home: it can be simple or complicated depending on the location.

How is income from solar electricity sales taxed?

The money you earn from selling your electricity is considered income. In France, there are specific tax rules. Often, a portion of this income is exempt from tax, and only a small portion is taxed. It’s a bit like the state giving you a boost to encourage you to produce green energy.

How do I know if the price offered by an installer is fair?

To compare installer offers, it’s useful to look at the price per ‘peak power’ (Wp), which measures the maximum capacity of your panels. A lower price per Wp is generally more advantageous, especially for large installations. This helps ensure that you are not overcharged and that you get good value for money.

What is the capacity market and is it worthwhile for solar?

The capacity market is a system that remunerates electricity producers for their availability, even if they don’t produce all the time. For solar, this market is often not very attractive because the sun doesn’t shine at night or in bad weather, times when electricity is sometimes more in demand.

What are the potential additional costs in a photovoltaic project?

Sometimes, the cost of a solar project can increase due to specific technological choices, such as more efficient panels or sun-tracking systems. Site-specific characteristics, such as the need for ground preparation or special fixings, can also add to the bill. It is therefore important to anticipate these eventualities.