Finalising your photovoltaic installation is an important step. The commissioning report (PV) is the document that confirms the completion of works and the proper functioning of your system. It is therefore essential to fully understand the procedures to ensure everything is in order before signing. This article guides you through the key points for a successful handover of your photovoltaic installation.

Key points of the commissioning report

• Check the conformity of the works carried out against the quote and current standards.
• Clearly identify and record any reservations on the commissioning report.
• Understand the importance of legal guarantees which begin on the handover date.
• Ensure that all contractual documents are available and consulted during the handover.
• Schedule the commissioning visit with technicians after obtaining authorisations.

Preparing your photovoltaic project

Undertaking a photovoltaic installation project requires meticulous preparation to ensure its success and compliance. This begins with choosing the professionals who will support you, from design to commissioning.

Selecting the right stakeholders is a crucial step. It’s not just about finding an installer, but about building a trusted team for your project. Several types of partners may be involved:

• Qualified Installer: This is the core of your project. They will be responsible for the physical installation of the panels and associated equipment.
• Design Office: They can carry out a technical feasibility study and precisely size your installation according to your needs and site. This is a key step to optimise production.
• Financial Partner: If you are using a loan, the choice of your bank or financing organisation is important.
• Project Developer: In some cases, a developer can help you structure your project, particularly for larger-scale installations.
• Operator/Maintainer: To ensure the longevity and performance of your installation, a maintenance contract may be considered.

It is advisable to request several quotes and compare offers, paying particular attention to the guarantees offered and the certifications of the professionals.

Choosing the right installer is paramount. A qualified installer not only guarantees the quality of the installation but also compliance with current standards and eligibility for certain grants or purchase tariffs. Here are some points to consider:

• Quality Indicators: Look for recognised certifications, such as the RGE label (Recognised Environmental Guarantor), which attests to the company’s expertise and is often a condition for benefiting from financial aid.
• Experience and References: Ask to see projects similar to yours and contact previous clients for their feedback.
• Materials Offered: Enquire about the brand and quality of the solar panels, inverters, and other components offered. Lifespan and associated guarantees are important factors.
• Detailed Quote: Ensure that the quote is clear, precise, and includes all services (materials, installation, administrative procedures, warranty).

Good communication with your installer from the start of the project will greatly facilitate the subsequent steps.

Financing a photovoltaic installation can be done in several ways. It is essential to fully understand the different options to choose the one that best suits your situation.

• Self-financing: Using your own funds to cover the entire cost of the installation.
• Bank Loan: Taking out a loan dedicated to works or a consumer loan from your bank.
• Grants and Subsidies: Enquire about existing aid schemes at national, regional, or local levels. These grants can take the form of tax credits, self-consumption bonuses, or advantageous purchase tariffs for electricity sold back to the grid.

It is recommended to carry out a simulation to estimate the profitability of your project and the expected return on investment. The estimation of your installation’s annual production is a key element in this calculation, and online tools can help you to size your installation.

Good financial planning, including an accurate estimate of costs and potential aid, is as important as the technical quality of the installation itself. This helps to avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure the long-term economic viability of your project.

Essential administrative procedures

Carrying out the administrative procedures for your photovoltaic installation is a step that requires rigour and anticipation. Failure to comply with these procedures can complicate the commissioning of your system by the network operator. It is therefore important to be well organised.

Here are the key points to consider:

• Obtain the necessary authorisations: Depending on the size of your installation and your location, you may need a prior declaration of works or a building permit. It is essential to enquire with your local council to find out the specific requirements. A well-prepared application avoids delays.
• Anticipate processing times: Administrations have deadlines for processing applications. These deadlines can vary, so it is advisable to submit your applications sufficiently in advance so that your project can proceed smoothly. For example, a prior declaration can take one month, or even two if the project is in a protected area.
• Understand the role of the SPS coordinator: For construction sites involving several companies, the presence of a Safety and Health Protection (SPS) coordinator is often mandatory. This professional ensures the safety of all personnel on site and the coordination of the different phases of the works. They draw up the Specific Safety and Health Protection Plan (PPSPS) and the Subsequent Intervention File on the Structure (DIUO).

It is often useful to be accompanied by professionals for these procedures. They are familiar with the processes and can help you compile complete files, which greatly facilitates the process. Remember to check that your installer is familiar with these formalities, or if they offer support for these administrative procedures.

Compliance with current standards and regulations is paramount for the longevity of your installation and to benefit from all possible guarantees and aid. Good administrative management from the outset is the key to a successful project.

Execution of your installation works

Once authorisations have been obtained and partners selected, the next step is to bring your photovoltaic project to fruition by carrying out the works. This phase requires particular attention to ensure that the installation complies with standards and expectations.

Electrical compliance and ETEL board

Electrical compliance is paramount for the safety and proper functioning of your system. It is imperative that the installation complies with current standards, particularly NF C 15-100. This includes the installation of a compliant electrical board, with adequate differential protection and easily accessible cut-off devices. The ETEL (Espace Technique Électrique Logement – Electrical Technical Space for Housing) board must be correctly sized to accommodate the various circuits, including those dedicated to your photovoltaic installation. A well-designed installation at this level prevents fire risks and ensures the longevity of your equipment. It is important to ensure that the electrician has taken into account the specificities of a solar installation when designing the board.

Coordination of different trades

In the context of a photovoltaic installation, several trades may be involved: roofers, electricians, plumbers (for cable routing or integration of monitoring systems), etc. Effective coordination between these different stakeholders is necessary to avoid scheduling conflicts and defects. Respecting the interfaces between trades is a key point. For example, the roofer must prepare the roof for waterproofing around the panel fixings, and the electrician must anticipate the cable routing. Good communication and clear planning of interventions help to streamline the construction site.

Adhere to the execution schedule

A clear and realistic execution schedule is the key to a successful construction project. It allows for monitoring the progress of works, anticipating potential delays, and coordinating the different stages. It is important that this schedule is communicated to all stakeholders. Adherence to deadlines is often linked to the availability of materials and the good organisation of on-site teams. A well-oriented roof, for example facing south, is an asset for the efficiency of the installation [ca59].

Prior assessment of your household’s energy needs is a crucial step to correctly size your photovoltaic installation and ensure it meets your expectations [5f7c].

Here are the points to check during the execution of the works:

• Material conformity: Ensure that the panels, inverters, and other components are those that were ordered and that they are in good condition.
• Installation quality: Check that the panels are correctly fixed, that the wiring is tidy and secure, and that the roof’s waterproofing is preserved.
• Adherence to plans: Ensure that the installation corresponds to the validated plans and the project’s technical specifications.
• Site safety: Ensure that safety rules are applied by all teams present.

Checks before handover

Before finalising your photovoltaic installation and declaring it operational, a series of checks are necessary. These controls aim to ensure that everything has been carried out in accordance with best practices and your project’s specifications. This is a key step to avoid unpleasant surprises and guarantee the performance and safety of your solar system.

Inspect the electrical installation

It is essential to check the conformity of all electrical connections. This includes examining the wiring, protections (circuit breakers, fuses), and earthing devices. Ensure that everything complies with current standards, particularly regarding the electrical board and its specific standards such as ETEL (Location of Evolving Technical Equipment). A well-executed electrical installation guarantees safe and reliable operation of your solar panels. Remember that Consuel certification will be necessary to validate this conformity.

Check the heating and plumbing system

Although less directly related to electricity production, heating and plumbing systems must also be inspected. This involves ensuring that they have not been affected by the solar panel installation works and that they are functioning correctly. Check for leaks, the proper operation of radiators or your hot water production system, and the integrity of the pipework.

Check the watertightness of joinery

The installation of solar panels, particularly on a roof, can potentially affect the watertightness of your joinery (windows, French doors, skylights). A meticulous inspection is necessary to detect any water infiltration or draughts. Ensure that the seals are properly fitted and that the fixings have not created weak points. Good watertightness is important for the comfort of your home and to prevent damage related to humidity. It is advisable to be wary of overly attractive offers and always favour qualified installers, such as those certified RGE, to minimise the risks of defects.

The handover of works is the moment when you confirm the completion of the works and their proper execution. This is the starting point for legal guarantees. It is therefore essential to carry out rigorous checks to record any reservations before signing the report.

Essential equipment for handover

The handover of your photovoltaic installation is a key step. To ensure everything is compliant and to document any anomalies, certain tools will be particularly useful. It’s not about checking everything yourself, but about having the means to objectively ascertain the state of the installation.

Use a smartphone to document

Your smartphone is your best ally during the handover visit. It allows you to take photos or videos of anything that seems suspicious or non-compliant. These visual elements constitute valuable evidence if reservations need to be made. Remember to activate your phone’s flash to illuminate less accessible areas, such as attics or spaces under the panels, to check the condition of the wiring and fixings. A portable charger can also be useful for testing the proper functioning of electrical sockets if your installation includes them.

Bring a spirit level to check flatness

Surface flatness is an often-overlooked but important aspect, especially for the aesthetic and functional integration of your system. A spirit level or, ideally, a laser level will allow you to check the straightness of supports, panel frames, or fixing elements. This may seem like a detail, but poor flatness can affect long-term performance or the watertightness of your roof. It is important to ensure that the elements are well aligned and correctly fixed, in accordance with the installation plans.

Have contractual documents ready

Before starting the visit, ensure you have all documents related to your project with you. This includes the signed quote, technical plans, material specifications, and any certificates of conformity. These documents serve as a reference to compare what has been installed with what was agreed upon. They are essential for identifying discrepancies and formulating precise reservations. Comparing the completed works with the initial plans is a step that ensures compliance with current standards.

It is strongly recommended not to be rushed by the installer during this visit. Take the necessary time to inspect each element. If any points raise questions, do not hesitate to note them down. The handover report is the document that formalises your agreement on the works carried out, and any unrecorded reservation will be considered accepted.

Key points of the commissioning report

Once the works are completed, the Commissioning Report (PV) is the document that confirms the completion of your photovoltaic installation. It is a formal step that validates the conformity of the works carried out and marks the beginning of the guarantees. It is therefore important to fully understand and check it carefully.

Check the conformity of the works carried out

The commissioning report must certify that the installation has been carried out in accordance with the validated plans, current standards (particularly NF C 15-100 for electrical installations), and contractual specifications. This involves ensuring that all installed equipment corresponds to what was ordered and that connections are made according to best practices. A visual inspection of the installation, if possible, can complement this check. It is necessary to ensure that the panels are securely fixed, that the wiring is tidy and secure, and that the inverter is correctly installed and accessible. The documentation provided by the installer, such as connection diagrams, must be consulted. If you have doubts about certain aspects, do not hesitate to ask your installer for clarification. A compliant installation is the basis for reliable and secure energy production. For a successful installation, it is advisable to prepare your project in advance, for example by choosing suitable partners.

Identify and record any reservations

On the day of handover, it is possible that minor defects or non-conformities may be observed. In this case, it is crucial to record them precisely in the commissioning report as ‘reservations’. These reservations detail the points that require correction or improvement by the installer. They may concern aesthetic aspects, finishes, or technical points that do not prevent immediate operation but must be rectified. It is essential never to sign a report without having recorded all observed reservations. A report without reservations constitutes unconditional acceptance of the works. Reservations must be addressed by the installer within an agreed timeframe, and a new visit may be necessary to verify their correction. Managing reservations is an integral part of the handover process and protects your rights.

Understand the importance of legal guarantees

The signing of the commissioning report marks the starting point for the legal guarantees applicable to your photovoltaic installation. There are primarily two types of guarantees to consider: the perfect completion guarantee (which covers all defects reported during handover or occurring within the following year) and the ten-year warranty (which covers damages compromising the solidity of the structure or rendering it unfit for its intended purpose for ten years). It is therefore crucial that the report is correctly dated and that all information relating to the installer and materials is present. Carefully keep this document, as well as all invoices and certificates. These guarantees are your protection in case of future problems with your installation. Knowing how your project’s financing works is also an important step before reaching this phase.

Finalising the commissioning of your installation

Once the works are completed and preliminary checks have been carried out, it’s time to move on to the final steps to make your photovoltaic system officially operational. These procedures are essential to ensure the conformity of your installation and allow you to fully benefit from your solar energy production.

Submit the connection request to Enedis

The first concrete step after the completion of works is to submit your connection application to Enedis. This application generally includes the electrical installation’s certificate of conformity, your site’s layout plan, and the technical characteristics of your equipment. Once your application is accepted, Enedis will schedule its teams’ intervention to connect your installation to the public electricity distribution network. It is important to anticipate this timeframe, as it can vary depending on the period and the workload of Enedis’ teams. You can consult information related to this process on the Enedis website.

Obtain Consuel certification

Consuel (National Committee for the Safety of Electricity Users) is an organisation that issues a certificate of conformity for electrical installations. For your photovoltaic system, you will need to obtain the Consuel visa, which certifies that your installation complies with current safety standards. Your qualified installer generally handles this procedure, but it is good to ensure that the document is indeed requested and obtained. This certificate is essential for connection to the network and for any subsequent administrative procedures, particularly to benefit from guaranteed purchase tariffs or bonuses. It is proof that your installation is safe and compliant.

Schedule the commissioning visit

Once the connection has been made by Enedis and you have the Consuel certificate, the final step is the commissioning visit. This visit is often carried out by your installer, in the presence of an Enedis representative if necessary. It aims to check the overall proper functioning of the installation, including the network connection, the inverter’s operation, and electricity production. It is at this point that your system truly begins to produce energy and connect to the grid. Ensure that all necessary documents are ready for this visit, including the equipment warranty certificate. The successful completion of this visit marks the official end of the commissioning phase of your photovoltaic installation, allowing you to benefit from your solar energy production and potentially the self-consumption bonus paid one year after commissioning.

It is also advisable to enquire about turnkey solutions for farmers wishing to transform their farms into energy centres, such as those offered for the installation of photovoltaic canopies.

To assist you in managing your project, simplified tools exist, such as spreadsheets for integration into new constructions.

Managing unforeseen situations

It happens that unforeseen events occur during the commissioning of your photovoltaic installation, particularly if your installer encounters financial difficulties. It is important to know how to react to protect your investment.

Understanding the consequences of compulsory liquidation

If your installer is subject to compulsory liquidation proceedings, it means that the company can no longer honour its debts and its assets are sold to repay creditors. In this case, you can no longer sue the company to cancel the contract or claim compensation. However, you have the option to declare your claim to the liquidator. If the company director is prosecuted for misleading commercial practices, you can join the civil action to obtain redress. It is advisable to consult a guide on how to resolve a dispute to better understand your rights and the steps to follow.

Declare your claims to the liquidator

When you learn that compulsory liquidation proceedings have been opened against your installer, the first step is to contact the appointed liquidator. You will need to provide them with all documents justifying your claim: signed contract, invoices, proof of payments already made, and any other element attesting to your prejudice. It is essential to respect the deadlines for declaring a claim, as after this period, you could lose your right to compensation. Once your claim is declared, the liquidator will examine it and inform you of their decision.

Join civil proceedings in case of fraud

In certain situations, compulsory liquidation can be the consequence of fraud committed by the company director. If you have evidence or indications of such practices (misleading advertising, embezzlement, etc.), you can consider joining civil proceedings. This means you are requesting that justice be served and that the responsible party be penalised. This step is generally taken within the framework of criminal proceedings. It is often recommended to be accompanied by a specialised solicitor to navigate these complex procedures and increase your chances of success. The objective is to have the suffered prejudice recognised and to obtain compensation.

Finding a new installer

If your initial installer is in compulsory liquidation or can no longer complete the works, it is necessary to find a new professional to take over your project. This process can be complex, but several avenues exist to help you in this search.

Contact France Renov’ advisors

The France Renov’ network can direct you towards qualified and recognised professionals in the field of renewable energies. These advisors are a good first step to obtain reliable recommendations tailored to your situation. They can help you identify companies capable of taking over an ongoing project, which requires specific expertise.

Consult professional directories

Several directories and databases list qualified installers. These resources allow you to check companies’ certifications, insurance, and references. Look for installers with significant experience in photovoltaic installations who are familiar with the administrative procedures related to connection. Good preparation of your project, including choosing suitable partners, is always beneficial choosing partners suitable for your installation.

Contact equipment manufacturers

Manufacturers of solar panels, inverters, or other equipment can often recommend approved installers or those with good knowledge of their products. Directly contacting manufacturers whose equipment is already installed or planned for your system can facilitate the takeover of the project, as the new installer will already be familiar with the technical specifics.

It is important to thoroughly document the progress of the works and administrative procedures already carried out. Gather all contracts, invoices, permits, and correspondence with the former installer. These elements will be essential for the new professional to assess the situation and propose a suitable solution.

Here are some points to check when selecting a new installer:

• Qualifications and certifications: Ensure they possess RGE (Recognised Environmental Guarantor) qualifications and necessary insurance (professional indemnity, ten-year warranty).
• Experience: Prioritise an installer with solid experience in taking over photovoltaic projects.
• Detailed quote: Request a clear and precise quote, detailing the works to be carried out, the materials used, and the intervention schedule.
• References: Do not hesitate to ask for references of similar projects completed by the company.

Ensuring post-installation follow-up

Once your photovoltaic installation is completed and handed over, it is important not to neglect the follow-up steps. These ensure the longevity of your system and protect you in case of problems.

Report claims to your insurer

In case of a malfunction or damage to your installation, the first step is to contact your home insurance. It may cover certain types of claims. If the problem is related to the quality of the works or material defects, you could also turn to your installer’s ten-year warranty insurance. This cover remains valid even if the company has ceased trading. Insurers may appoint a professional to carry out repairs or reimburse you upon presentation of supporting documents.

Contact the manufacturer for product warranties

If the issue concerns a specific component of your installation, such as the panels or the inverter, it is relevant to contact the manufacturer directly. Each piece of equipment benefits from specific warranties that may cover manufacturing defects or breakdowns. It is useful to carefully keep all documents relating to the products, including manuals and certificates of conformity, such as the one issued by CONSUEL for the electrical installation.

Plan preventive maintenance

To keep your installation in perfect working order and optimise its energy production, regular maintenance is recommended. This includes periodic checks of connections, cleaning of panels if necessary, and a general system inspection. Good preventive maintenance helps anticipate breakdowns and extends the lifespan of your equipment. It is advisable to call upon a qualified professional for these operations, especially if you do not have the required technical skills, for example, to assess the nominal power of your panels over time with suitable tools [5003].

Here are some points to check during maintenance:

• Condition of fixings and support structure.
• Cleanliness of solar panels.
• Electrical connections and cable condition.
• Operation of the inverter and safety devices.

A well-maintained installation is an installation that produces more and for longer. Do not underestimate the importance of these regular checks for the profitability of your photovoltaic project.

Once your solar installation is complete, we remain by your side. We check that everything is working perfectly and answer all your questions. For any request or to learn more about our services, please do not hesitate to visit our website.

To conclude: the importance of a meticulous works handover

Finalising the installation of your photovoltaic panels is an important step. We’ve seen together how to properly check that everything is in order. This is the moment to ensure that the work has been done correctly and that everything is functioning as expected. Remember that this document, the commissioning report, marks the beginning of the guarantees. Take the time to check everything thoroughly, have the right tools, and refer to the documents you have signed. If any points pose a problem, they must be clearly noted. A well-conducted works handover will save you many troubles later on and allow you to serenely enjoy your solar installation. This is the home stretch before you can say that your project is truly finished and functional.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a commissioning report for a solar installation?

The commissioning report is an important document. It proves that your solar installation has been checked and is ready to operate. It’s like a health certificate for your panels.

What are the first things to do before signing this report?

Before signing, you need to carefully check that everything has been done correctly. Verify that the panels are properly installed, that the cables are securely connected, and that everything is working as expected. This is the time to spot any minor issues.

Do I need to check my house’s electricity?

Yes, it’s a good idea to check that your entire house’s electrical system is in order. Turn on the lights, test the sockets, and make sure nothing is amiss.

What tools are useful for checking the installation?

A smartphone with a good camera is very useful for taking photos if you find any defects. A spirit level can help to see if things are straight, like worktops.

What should I do if I find problems during the check?

If you see anything that isn’t right, you must note it in the commissioning report. This is called making reservations. It allows you to ask the installer to correct the defects before validation.

What documents should I have on the day of handover?

It is advisable to have the quote you signed with the installer. This allows you to compare what has been done with what was agreed.

What happens after signing the commissioning report?

Once the report is signed, the installer’s legal guarantees begin. This is proof that the installation is complete and is supposed to function correctly. Afterwards, you need to submit the official connection request.

Who should I contact if my installer has problems (compulsory liquidation)?

If your installer has financial difficulties such as compulsory liquidation, you must first declare what they owe you. You can also contact France Renov’ advisors or look for installers who can take over the project.