As part of connecting your photovoltaic installation to the electricity grid, several contracts come into play. Among them, the CARD contract occupies a specific place, particularly for large energy consumers. Understanding its role is essential to grasp the methods of electricity transmission and the particularities linked to your consumption profile. This article aims to clarify the features of this contract.

Key Points to Remember

• The CARD contract (Contract for Access to Public Distribution Networks) governs the transmission of electricity for large consumers, separately from the supply contract.
• There are variants such as CARD-I (power above 36 kVA) and CARD-S (for so-called ‘selected’ consumers).
• This contract is linked to the financing of the transmission via the TURPE (Tariff for the Use of Public Electricity Networks).
• The CARD contract differs from the CART contract, which is related to access to the transmission network and is aimed at the very largest consumers.
• The subscription to the CARD involves precise administrative and technical procedures, often including the appointment of a balancing responsible party.

Understanding the Role of the CARD Contract in Photovoltaic Connection

Definition and Scope of the CARD Contract

The CARD contract, which stands for Contract for Access to Public Distribution Networks, is an important administrative step for certain electricity consumers, especially those undertaking photovoltaic connection. It does not directly concern the supply of electricity, but rather the access to and use of the distribution networks managed by actors such as Enedis or Local Distribution Companies (ELD). This contract sets out the technical and financial terms for transporting electricity to your site. It is separate from the supply contract you sign with an energy supplier. For photovoltaic installations, the CARD is essential as it formalises the connection of your production site to the public network, allowing the injection of produced electricity or its consumption.

The Different Categories of the CARD Contract

There are several versions of the CARD contract, adapted to different consumer profiles. The two main ones are CARD-I and CARD-S. CARD-I is aimed at consumers whose meter power exceeds 36 kVA, which is often the case for medium to large photovoltaic installations. CARD-S, on the other hand, is intended for ‘selected consumers’, generally the largest energy consumers. The choice of category will depend on the contracted power and the specific characteristics of your photovoltaic installation and your consumption site. Understanding these distinctions is necessary to ensure the contract properly suits your needs.

Potential Beneficiaries of the CARD Contract

The CARD contract is mainly aimed at professionals and local authorities with significant energy needs. This includes so-called ‘electro-intensive’ companies, industries, large commercial buildings, and of course, solar energy producers whose installation exceeds a certain power. If you are considering connecting a photovoltaic installation that will inject electricity into the public grid, whether for total sale or self-consumption with injection, it is highly likely that you will need a CARD contract. It is therefore important to correctly identify your consumer profile to start the right administrative procedures with the network operator. Access to public distribution networks is a key stage for any solar energy injection project via the network manager.

The Specifics of the CARD Contract for Large Consumers

For companies and local authorities that consume a lot of electricity, the CARD contract presents important particularities. It is a contractual approach that is distinct from that used for smaller consumers, as it separates the transmission from the energy supply. This means you manage two contracts: one for access to the distribution network (the CARD) and another for the supply of electricity with a supplier. This distinction has direct implications for the way your consumption is billed and managed.

Distinction Between the CARD Contract and the Supply Contract

The CARD contract, or Contract for Access to Public Distribution Networks, specifically concerns the use of electricity distribution infrastructure. It is signed with the network operator, such as Enedis. At the same time, a supply contract is necessary to purchase the electricity itself from an energy supplier. This separation enables a more detailed management of transmission costs and subscribed power. Large consumers can thus better analyse and optimise these areas of expenditure.

Impact on Billing and Contract Management

With a CARD contract, you generally receive two separate bills: one from the distributor for the transmission, including TURPE (Tariff for the Use of Public Electricity Networks), and another from the supplier for the electricity consumption. This double billing requires careful organisation for budget monitoring and administrative management. It is important to understand the elements of each bill to anticipate costs and avoid unpleasant surprises. Managing these two contracts can be simplified by choosing a supplier that offers support services for these procedures.

Adapting to Significant Energy Needs

Large consumers have energy needs that are out of the ordinary. The CARD contract is designed to meet these requirements, notably by enabling subscription to meter capacities in excess of 36 kVA (CARD-I contract). It offers flexibility to adapt the network connection to the specifics of the activity. Furthermore, the management of reactive power and the impact on transformer stations are technical aspects covered by this type of contract, to guarantee a stable power supply suited to intensive industrial or commercial uses. Access to public distribution networks is thus optimised for these profiles.

The CARD Contract and Electricity Transmission

The CARD contract, which stands for Contract for Access to Public Distribution Networks, plays a central role in the way electricity is transmitted to large consumers, including those who produce their own photovoltaic energy. It establishes the direct relationship between the consumer and the distribution network manager, such as Enedis. This contract is separate from the electricity supply contract that the consumer signs with an energy supplier. As a result, the consumer ends up with two main contracts to manage: one for access to and use of the network, and another for the supply of the electricity itself.

Role of the CARD Contract in Accessing Public Networks

The CARD contract is the key that opens the door to the use of public distribution networks. It formalises the conditions under which a site is connected and can consume or inject electricity. For photovoltaic installations, this means that the CARD contract defines how the produced electricity will be transmitted, whether for on-site consumption or injection into the grid. It guarantees access to these essential infrastructures, thus enabling a reliable and secure connection. Obtaining this contract is an obligatory step before any effective commissioning of the installation on the distribution network.

The TURPE: Financing Transmission

The Tariff for the Use of Public Electricity Networks (TURPE) is a major financial component managed within the CARD contract. This tariff, set by the Energy Regulation Commission (CRE), covers the costs of maintenance, operation and development of the distribution and transmission networks. It is paid by all consumers, but its application methods vary significantly according to the subscribed capacity and the consumption profile. For CARD contract holders, the TURPE is a cost line separate from the energy supply, reflecting the price of transmission. The optimisation of this tariff is often a major economic issue for large consumers.

Management of the Supply-Demand Balance

Although the CARD contract mainly concerns access to the distribution network, it is part of a wider ecosystem where managing the balance between the supply and demand of electricity is crucial. Large consumers, including those with photovoltaic installations, can have a significant impact on this balance. The CARD contract may include clauses relating to the management of injected or withdrawn power, and the consumer is often required to appoint a balancing responsible party. The latter ensures that injections match withdrawals, thus contributing to the overall stability of the electricity network. For photovoltaic installations, this may involve coordination with the balancing responsible to manage periods of high solar production and consumption demands.

Distinction Between the CARD and CART Contracts

It is important to distinguish clearly between the CARD and CART contracts, as they are aimed at different consumer profiles and involve separate network managers. The CARD contract, or Contract for Access to Public Distribution Networks, is the one that connects you to the electricity distribution network. It is generally Enedis that manages this network for most sites in France, although some areas are served by Local Distribution Companies (ELD).

The CART contract, on the other hand, concerns access to the transmission network of electricity. This network is managed by RTE (Réseau de Transport d’Électricité). This is a fundamental distinction: the distribution network supplies end consumers, while the transmission network interconnects major production sites and large consumption centres.

The CART contract: Access to the Transmission Network

The CART contract is a fairly rare procedure, reserved for the very largest electricity consumers. These consumers, often classified in the C1 profile, are those with particularly large energy needs, such as electro-intensive industries or large local authorities. They are generally connected to the network in high voltage (HV, or EHV) and their meter power often exceeds 40,000 kVA. By signing a CART contract, these operators contract directly with RTE. This contract details the technical aspects of supply, the expected service quality, the billing methods, and the conditions for provision of metering data. Be aware that consumers under a CART contract must also pay the TURPE HTB, a specific version of the tariff for the use of public electricity networks.

Respective Scope of the Two Contracts

The CARD contract applies to the majority of companies and local authorities needing a connection to the distribution network. There are also variants such as CARD-I (for power above 36 kVA) and CARD-S (for so-called selected consumers

Detailed Content of a CARD Contract

The CARD contract, which stands for Contract for Access to Public Distribution Networks, is an essential document for large electricity consumers. It details the terms for electricity transmission to your site. It is not just a formality; it lays the foundation for your relationship with the distribution network operator, such as Enedis. It is crucial to understand each clause well to anticipate costs and technical requirements.

Technical Aspects and Service Quality

This contract covers several important technical points. It defines the level of quality of the electricity supply that you can expect, including guarantees on continuity of supply and voltage stability. Network availability is also specified, indicating how the operator undertakes to maintain the infrastructure in good working order. Clauses may also cover the management of peak demand and the network’s ability to meet it, which is particularly relevant for installations with significant and variable energy needs. It is important to note that this contract is distinct from the electricity supply contract you sign with a supplier. You can consult the details on the segmentation of electricity contracts to better understand these distinctions.

Billing and Payment Terms

The financial aspects are clearly set out in the CARD contract. It details the structure of the costs related to electricity transmission, often calculated according to the TURPE scale (Tariff for the Use of Public Electricity Networks). This tariff, which finances the maintenance and operation of the networks, may vary according to your consumption profile and subscribed power. The contract specifies the different components of the transmission invoice, payment deadlines, and procedures in case of delay or dispute. It also mentions how any overruns of subscribed power are billed. TURPE 7, for example, is the tariff applied by the distribution network operator for CARD customers invoiced directly by the operator.

Metering Device and Data Provision

The CARD contract specifies the type of metering device installed on your site. This may be smart meters capable of recording your consumption at regular intervals, or even in real time. The conditions for provision of this data are also defined. You generally have access to your consumption data via an online platform, allowing you to monitor and optimise your usage. The contract may also specify the procedures for maintenance or replacement of these meters, as well as the access conditions for network operator technicians. Clarity on these points is essential for proper management of your installation.

The CARD-I Contract and its Technical Implications

The CARD-I contract, a specific version of the Contract for Access to Public Distribution Networks, is aimed at consumers whose meter power exceeds 36 kVA. This category of clients, often businesses or local authorities with significant energy needs, is subject to particular technical requirements linked to their higher consumption. It is important to note that this contract is separate from the electricity supply contract, involving separate management of transmission and consumption.

Meter Power Above 36 kVA

When the subscribed power exceeds 36 kVA, the CARD-I contract becomes the norm. This means that the consumer is directly connected to the distribution network with equipment suited to this greater demand. Managing this power requires special attention to the stability of supply and the network’s ability to meet peak demand. The technical implications are significant, as they impact the very design of the connection infrastructure.

Management of Reactive Power

A major technical aspect of the CARD-I contract concerns the management of reactive power. Large installations may generate or absorb reactive power, which can disrupt the quality of electricity on the network. The CARD-I contract often includes specific clauses to manage these exchanges. This may require the installation of compensation equipment, such as capacitor banks or synchronous compensators, to maintain the power factor within regulatory limits. Poor management of reactive power can result in financial penalties and affect service quality for all network users.

Impact on Transformer Stations

Consumers under CARD-I generally have a direct impact on the transformer stations of the public distribution network. Depending on the subscribed power and supply voltage, it may be necessary to adapt or reinforce existing equipment, or even build new stations. This involves thorough technical studies to properly size transformers, circuit breakers and protections. The cost of these adaptations is often passed on to the consumer, either directly at connection or via transmission tariffs. Collaboration with the network operator is therefore essential to anticipate these needs and plan the necessary works. Optimising these infrastructures is a key issue for guaranteeing reliable and economical supply, and may require an analysis of the requirements for connection to the public network.

Subscribing to a CARD-I contract requires increased vigilance over the technical performance of the installation. Beyond simple consumption, managing reactive power and adapting transformer infrastructures become central elements. These technical aspects have a direct influence on supply reliability and transmission costs, making rigorous planning essential.

The CARD-S Contract for Selected Consumers

The CARD-S contract, or Contract for Access to Public Distribution Networks – Withdrawal, is specifically aimed at large electricity consumers. It is signed between a so-called ‘selected’ consumer and the distribution network operator, such as Enedis. This type of contract is separate from the electricity supply contract, which is signed with an energy supplier. In practice, this means the consumer has two separate contracts: one for electricity transmission (the CARD-S) and another for its supply.

Definition of a Selected Consumer

A consumer is considered ‘selected’ when they have a particularly large electricity consumption, placing them within a specific category requiring dedicated management of transmission. These consumers are often industrial sites, large local authorities, or so-called ‘electro-intensive’ companies. Their consumption profile justifies a distinct contractual approach for network access.

Application Cases for CARD-S

The CARD-S contract is applied to consumers whose meter power is greater than 36 kVA and who are not covered by a single contract with their supplier. It allows more precise management of electricity transmission, tailored to the significant and potentially variable needs of these sites. The aim is to guarantee a reliable and high-quality electricity supply, while optimising the contractual aspects relating to network use.

Contractual Specificities

Card-S specificities include the clear separation between the roles of the distributor and the supplier. The contract details the conditions of network access, expected service quality, and billing terms relating to transmission. It is important to note that the TURPE (Tariff for the Use of Public Electricity Networks) is a key component of this contract, financing the infrastructure and maintenance of the network. The choice of the TURPE tariff version can have a significant impact on costs. Consumers under CARD-S must also appoint a balancing responsible party to ensure network stability, a process often facilitated by energy suppliers. For photovoltaic installations, ensuring the installer’s qualification, for instance via QualiPV 500, is an important step to benefit from support schemes.

Subscription Procedure and Required Documents for the CARD Contract

To set up a CARD contract, there is a procedure to follow and papers to provide. It is an important step for large electricity consumers wishing to connect to the distribution network. This file should be well prepared so that everything goes smoothly.

Connection and Operating Agreement

The first step is to request a connection agreement. This document details how your installation will be connected to the public network. It specifies technical aspects, the responsibilities of each party, and the timings. Next, you also need an operating agreement. This governs the daily use of the network and the terms of operation. These two agreements form the foundation of your relationship with the network operator. They define the ground rules for your electricity transmission.

Agreement to Join a Balancing Responsible Party

A key point for CARD contracts is the appointment of a balancing responsible party. This is an entity ensuring that the electricity you consume matches that injected into the network. Without this agreement, your contract request cannot proceed. This balancing responsible can be your energy supplier, but also another specialised actor. It is important to choose this partner well as they play a part in supply stability.

Technical and Administrative Documents

Alongside the agreements, several other documents are needed. These are administrative documents that confirm your identity or that of your company, such as an extract from the commercial register (Kbis) for example. On the technical side, you will need to provide plans of your installation, wiring diagrams, and information on the power you intend to use. The exact list may vary according to the distributor and the type of CARD contract (CARD-I or CARD-S), so it is advisable to check with them for full details.

Here is an overview of the documents often required:

• Kbis extract or equivalent for companies.
• Site plans and single-line diagrams of the installation.
• Description of the desired connection power.
• Certificate of compliance for electrical installations (if applicable).
• Full contact details for the site and applicant.

Optimising Transmission Costs via the CARD Contract

Although centred on access to public distribution networks, the CARD contract offers ways to keep control of the costs related to electricity transmission. These costs, often a significant part of the overall bill, can be influenced by strategic choices when subscribing to and managing the contract. It is therefore relevant to consider how these elements can be optimised.

Choosing the TURPE Tariff Version

The Tariff for the Use of Public Electricity Networks (TURPE) is the main component of transmission cost. For consumers whose subscribed power exceeds 36 kVA, TURPE has different versions. These are designed to reflect periods of network use, distinguishing peak hours, off-peak hours and seasonal periods. A close analysis of your consumption profiles allows you to select the most advantageous tariff version. For example, if your activity is mainly concentrated during off-peak periods or outside times of high demand, opting for a suitable tariff may generate substantial savings. It is important to consult the annual changes to the TURPE 2025 to anticipate these variations.

Impact of Consumption Periods on Billing

The structure of TURPE tariffs, particularly for CARD-I contracts, is often indexed to consumption periods. This means the transmission cost varies depending on the time of day and season. Periods of heavy network demand are generally more expensive. To optimise your costs, it is advisable to shift as much as possible your highest electricity consumption to less expensive periods. This may require reorganisation of your operational processes, but the potential gains on the transmission bill can be significant. A good understanding of these time bands is therefore crucial.

Analysis of Costs Linked to Subscribed Power

The subscribed power with the distributor is another decisive factor in computing TURPE. It represents the maximum capacity of electricity you can draw from the network at a given moment. An excessively high subscribed power leads to higher fixed costs, even if you do not use this capacity all the time. Conversely, insufficient power can lead to overruns, often billed at higher tariffs, and potentially to service interruptions. It is therefore essential to carefully analyse your real power requirements. Adjustments may be considered, sometimes assisted by mechanisms such as the rate of reduction under certain conditions, to strike the right balance between supply security and cost control.

Proactive management of subscribed power and adapting consumption to TURPE tariff bands are significant levers for financial optimisation for CARD contract holders.

The CARD Contract in the Photovoltaic Connection Process

Connecting a photovoltaic installation to the public electricity grid is an essential administrative and technical step. For electricity consumers of a certain scale, the CARD contract (Contract for Access to Public Distribution Networks) plays a particular role in this process, especially when it comes to managing the injection of produced electricity.

Acceptance of the Technical and Financial Proposal (PTF)

Once your connection request has been reviewed by the network manager, you are sent a Technical and Financial Proposal (PTF). This details the work required to connect your installation to the grid and specifies the cost. Acceptance of this marks the beginning of the contractualisation for network access. It is important to review this proposal carefully, as it determines the subsequent stages.

Formalisation of the Contract for Access to the Public Distribution Network (Card-i)

After accepting the PTF, the next stage is to formalise the CARD-i contract. This contract specifically concerns consumers whose meter power is over 36 kVA. It establishes the terms of access to the distribution network for your photovoltaic installation. It is essential to understand that this contract is separate from the electricity supply contract. You can find more information on the data required for a connection request.

Commissioning and Injection into the Grid

Once the connection work has been carried out by the network operator and the CARD-i contract signed, an operating agreement is generally established. At this point, your installation is effectively commissioned. Your photovoltaic system can then start to inject the electricity produced into the public distribution grid, marking the end of the connection process and the start of your energy production.

• Acceptance of the PTF
• Signing of the CARD-i contract
• Performance of the connection work
• Commissioning and start of injection

The CARD contract is an important step when you want to install solar panels. It ensures that everything is clear between you and the installer regarding the connection of your photovoltaic installation. It’s a bit like a written agreement that protects everyone.

Want to find out more about the CARD contract and how it works? Visit our website to discover all the details and get personalised advice. We are here to help you make your solar project simple and secure!

In Short: The Role of the CARD Contract in PV Connection

To put it simply, the CARD contract, or Contract for Access to Public Distribution Networks, is basically the document that governs how your solar energy will be connected to the general electricity network. It is mainly important for large consumers, like businesses or local authorities, who need a more direct connection. It is not just a formality; it sets out the rules so that everything runs smoothly, whether for electricity transmission or billing. If you are installing solar panels, especially if you are a business, understanding this contract and how it works with your connection request to Enedis is a step not to be overlooked. It might seem a bit technical at first, but it ensures your solar project operates properly and legally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a CARD contract?

The CARD contract is a bit like a special subscription for large electricity consumers, such as large factories or cities. It enables them to have direct access to the electricity distribution wires, managed by companies like Enedis. In addition, they must also sign a contract with a company that sells them the electricity. So, they have two contracts: one to use the wires and another to buy the electricity.

Why are there CARD-I and CARD-S contracts?

These two contracts are versions of the CARD contract. CARD-I is for businesses whose electricity meter is beefier, with power above 36 kVA. CARD-S, on the other hand, is even more specific and concerns ‘selected’ consumers, often the largest of the large, who have very particular needs.

What is the role of the CARD contract in connecting solar panels?

For solar installations, especially those that produce a lot of electricity, the CARD contract is important. It ensures that the electricity produced by your panels can actually be sent to the grid. It’s a kind of ‘permit’ to connect your installation and move the energy around.

What is TURPE and how is it linked to the CARD contract?

TURPE is a bit like a toll for using the electricity roads, that’s to say the network. This tariff is used to pay for the maintenance of these networks. The CARD contract includes this TURPE, as it relates to the use of these networks to move electricity to the consumer.

What’s the difference between a CARD and a CART contract?

The CARD contract concerns access to the distribution networks (the ‘smaller’ electricity roads), managed by companies like Enedis. The CART contract is for access to the transmission network (the ‘motorways’ of electricity), managed by RTE. CART is even rarer and reserved for the truly huge consumers.

What does a CARD contract actually contain?

A CARD contract contains lots of important information. It covers the quality of the electricity you’ll receive, how you’ll be billed, what happens if you don’t follow the rules (like exceeding the authorised power), and how your electricity use is measured.

How do you get a CARD contract?

To get a CARD contract, you have to fill in several documents. There’s a ‘connection agreement’ to connect to the network, an agreement to ensure the produced and consumed electricity remains balanced, and other technical documents. It’s a bit like putting together a file to prove you’re ready.

Can the CARD contract help you pay less for electricity?

The CARD contract itself doesn’t make the price of electricity drop directly, but it allows you to better understand and choose certain TURPE (‘toll’ for the network) tariff options. By choosing well, especially if you consume a lot at certain times, you can optimise the cost of electricity transmission.