Dreaming of a free solar carport for your home, but don’t know where to start? That’s an excellent idea! Combining vehicle protection with green energy production is smart. But how do you make it as cheap as possible, or even free? There are quite a few grants and subsidies in France to help you finance this project. Whether it’s government aid or local initiatives, there are solutions. We’ll look together at how to take advantage of these aids so that your solar carport becomes a reality without emptying your wallet.
Key Points to Remember
- A solar carport is a structure that shelters your car and produces electricity using solar panels. It’s good for the planet and for your budget.
- There are national aids such as the self-consumption premium or the obligation to purchase to resell your surplus electricity. These aids can really lower the cost.
- Don’t forget to look for local subsidies! Regions and municipalities can also offer specific aids for solar installations.
- To be eligible for these aids, there are conditions to meet: the power of the installation, using an RGE certified installer, and sometimes criteria related to your home.
- Administrative procedures are important: declaration of works, building permit if the surface area is large, and the CONSUEL certificate for electrical safety. This is essential for everything to be in order.
Understanding the concept of a free solar carport
Definition and operation of a solar carport
A solar carport, or solar car shelter, is a structure designed to shelter one or more vehicles, while producing electricity thanks to photovoltaic panels installed on its roof. It works similarly to a classic rooftop solar installation. The panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. This electricity can then be used to power your home, charge an electric vehicle, or be sold back to the grid. It’s a bit like having a small power plant of your own.
Ecological and economic advantages
Opting for a solar carport offers many advantages. Environmentally, it reduces your carbon footprint by producing clean, renewable energy. Economically, it offers the possibility of significant savings on your electricity bills, or even generating income by selling surplus energy. In addition, it protects your vehicle from bad weather, thus extending its lifespan. It is a sustainable investment that combines protection and energy production.
The principle of self-consumption and resale
The principle of self-consumption consists of directly consuming the electricity produced by your solar carport. This allows you to reduce your dependence on the electricity grid and lower your bills. If your electricity production exceeds your consumption, you have the option of selling the surplus to an energy supplier. This mechanism, regulated by the State, ensures you a complementary income and helps make your investment profitable. It’s a smart way to manage your energy and participate in the energy transition.
Self-consumption with resale of surplus is an excellent way to maximise the benefits of a solar carport. By first consuming your own production, you reduce your electricity purchases. The resale of the surplus then allows you to generate income, thus optimising the return on investment of your installation.
Here is a summary table of the advantages:
| Advantage | Description |
National financial aid for a solar carport
Installing a solar carport is great for the environment and can even save you money. But let’s be realistic, the initial cost can be a barrier. Fortunately, the French State offers several financial aids to lighten this expense. These aids are there to encourage the adoption of solar energy and make these installations more accessible to everyone. We will look together at the main national aids available.
The photovoltaic self-consumption premium
The self-consumption premium is financial aid paid by the State to encourage individuals to produce their own electricity using solar panels and to consume this electricity on site. This is a great opportunity to make your solar carport installation profitable. The amount of this premium depends on the power of your installation and it is paid in several instalments over the first five years. To be eligible, your installation must have a power of less than 100 kWp and you must use an RGE certified installer. A qualified installer is essential to benefit from this premium.
The obligation to purchase surplus electricity
The obligation to purchase, or OA, is a scheme that allows you to sell the surplus electricity you produce with your solar panels to EDF. EDF is obliged to buy back this electricity from you at a price set by the State for a period of 20 years. This is an excellent way to make your installation profitable and generate additional income. Purchase prices vary depending on the power of your photovoltaic installation. This is a 20-year contract that ensures you a stable income. Remember to find out about the purchase prices in force.
The MaPrimeRénov’ scheme for thermal installations
MaPrimeRénov’ is a state financial aid intended for all owners, occupants or landlords, for energy renovation work. It mainly concerns solar thermal installations, i.e. those that produce heat (for domestic hot water or heating). To benefit from MaPrimeRénov’ for a solar thermal carport, the work must be carried out by an RGE certified craftsman and your home must be more than 15 years old. The interest-free loan PTZ can also be an interesting option to finance your solar carport project.
Regional and local subsidies available
Initiatives by local authorities
Local authorities, such as regions, departments and municipalities, play an important role in promoting renewable energies. They implement initiatives to encourage the installation of solar carports, in addition to national aid. These initiatives can take different forms, such as direct subsidies, interest-free loans or tax exemptions. It is therefore essential to inquire with your local authority to find out about the available aid.
Examples of specific subsidies by region
Regional aid varies considerably from one region to another. For example, some regions may offer financial aid for the installation of solar panels, while others may offer technical support schemes. In the PACA region, for example, businesses can benefit from a subsidy covering 15% of the cost of installing solar panels, subject to certain conditions. It is therefore important to consult your region’s website or contact the relevant services directly to find out about the specific aid you can benefit from. The amounts of local solar carport subsidies generally range between €4,000 and €7,000.
How to search for local aid for your project
Searching for local aid can seem complex, but it is essential to optimise the financing of your solar carport project. Here are some avenues to explore:
- Consult the website of your region, department and municipality.
- Contact the relevant services of your local authority directly.
- Inquire with the Info Énergie centres in your region.
- Use the online search tools provided by ADEME (French Environment and Energy Management Agency).
It is important to note that local aid is often subject to specific conditions, such as energy performance criteria or requirements for installer certification. It is therefore essential to carefully read the eligibility conditions before submitting your application.
Remember to check the eligibility criteria and the steps to follow to benefit from these aids. For example, MaPrimeRénov’ can finance the installation of solar thermal panels, depending on your income. For installations with a maximum power of 3 kWp, a reduced VAT rate of 10% applies. To optimise the comfort of your home, choose air conditioning adapted to the surface to be cooled. It is advisable to carry out a thermal assessment with a professional for a tailor-made installation. Request several quotes to ensure the best choice. Unfortunately, it seems that there is a connection error to the database, which may make searching for information more difficult.
Eligibility conditions for solar carport aid
Criteria related to the power of the installation
- Aid depends on the installed power, measured in kilowatt-peak (kWp).
- There are three main brackets:
| Power (kWp) | Grant or premium |
|---|---|
| ≤ 3 | Basic premium |
| 3 – 9 | Enhanced premium |
| 9 – 36 | Guaranteed purchase prices over 20 years |
The installation must comply with the power thresholds defined by the regulations in force.
Make sure you choose a power adapted to your needs and the surface of your carport to optimise your return on investment.
In case of a connection error or blockage of your file, contact the administrative department immediately.
The importance of RGE certification for the installer
To be eligible for aid, your craftsman must hold the Recognised Guarantor of the Environment (RGE) certification.
List of advantages of an RGE installer:
- Proof of skills validated by an approved body.
- Assurance of work compliant with standards.
- Direct access to premiums and tax credits.
- Ten-year warranty often included.
Without this certificate, no subsidy can be granted.
To avoid any database error when entering attestations online, only use the official portal.
Requirements concerning the type of housing and the status of the owner
Aid is reserved for main residences, regardless of the material or year of construction, provided that:
- You are an owner-occupier or landlord offering long-term rental accommodation.
- Your accommodation has been completed for more than two years (with exceptions for certain schemes).
- The file is complete at the time of submission.
Ensure that all documents proving your situation and the conformity of the accommodation are provided.
A simple database connection problem can delay the processing of your file: check from the start that your personal space is working.
Administrative procedures for a solar carport
Are you considering installing a solar carport? This is an excellent initiative, both economically and ecologically. However, as with any electricity-generating installation, certain urban planning rules must be respected. It is therefore important to fully understand the necessary administrative procedures before embarking on this project.
Prior declaration of works at the town hall
For a solar carport, the first administrative step is generally to submit a prior declaration of works DP to your town hall. This declaration is mandatory for carports with a ground surface area between 5 and 20 m². The form to use is Cerfa n°13703*07. You will need to provide a certain number of documents, such as a site plan, a mass plan of the project, and a description of the materials used. The processing time for your application is generally one month. Once obtained, the prior declaration is valid for three years, renewable twice for one year each time.
Building permit for large areas
If your solar carport exceeds 20 m² of ground surface area, a simple prior declaration is no longer sufficient. You will then need to submit a building permit application photovoltaic shelter to your town hall. The form to use is Cerfa n°13406*13, and it must be completed in four copies. The processing time is longer than for a prior declaration, count approximately two months. As for the prior declaration, you will need to provide a complete file including plans, photos, and a detailed description of your project. The building permit is valid for three years, and can be renewed twice for a period of one year each time.
The CONSUEL certificate for electrical safety
Once your solar carport is installed, and before connecting it to the electrical grid, it is imperative to obtain a CONSUEL certificate of conformity. This organisation is responsible for verifying that your electrical installation complies with current safety standards. To obtain this certificate, you will need to complete a specific form and send it to CONSUEL, accompanied by the technical documents for your installation. Once the inspection visit has been carried out and validated, CONSUEL will issue you the certificate of conformity, which is essential for connecting your solar carport to the grid. It is important to note that this procedure is mandatory, and it aims to guarantee the safety of your installation and your home.
It is strongly advised to be accompanied by a qualified professional to carry out these administrative procedures. This will allow you to avoid errors and save time. In addition, an RGE (Recognised Guarantor of the Environment) certified installer will be able to advise you on the financial aid you can claim.
Remember to take out civil liability insurance to cover any damage caused by your installation. Some additional insurance may also be interesting, but they remain optional.
Optimising the financing of your solar carport
Installing a solar carport represents a significant initial investment. However, there are several strategies to optimise its financing and reduce the total cost of the project. By combining the various financial aids available and taking into account the impact of reduced VAT, it is possible to make this project more affordable and profitable.
Combining different financial aids
To reduce the cost of your solar carport, it is essential to explore and combine the various financial aids available. Here are some avenues to consider:
- The photovoltaic self-consumption premium: This premium, paid over five years, is calculated according to the power of your installation. It can be combined with other aids.
- The obligation to purchase surplus electricity: By selling the surplus electricity produced by your solar carport, you can generate additional income that will amortise your investment.
- Regional and local aids: Some local authorities offer specific subsidies to encourage the installation of solar panels. It is important to inquire with your town hall or regional council.
It is crucial to carefully study the eligibility conditions for each aid and to put together a complete file to maximise your chances of obtaining them. Do not hesitate to seek professional assistance to help you with these procedures.
The impact of reduced VAT on the total cost
Reduced VAT can significantly lower the total cost of your solar carport. Indeed, if your installation meets certain conditions, you can benefit from a reduced VAT rate of 10% instead of the normal rate of 20%. For this, your home must generally be more than two years old and the installation must be carried out by an RGE certified professional. This VAT reduction can represent substantial savings on the overall cost of the project. It is important to check your eligibility for this reduced rate with your installer.
Complementary financing solutions
If financial aid and reduced VAT are not enough to cover the entire cost of your solar carport, there are other complementary financing solutions. These include:
- Classic bank loans: Many banks offer specific loans for energy renovation work, including the installation of solar panels.
- The eco-loan at zero interest (eco-PTZ): This interest-free loan is intended to finance work to improve the energy performance of homes. It can be combined with other aids.
- The energy transition tax credit (CITE): Although this scheme has evolved, it may still be applicable in certain specific cases. Inquire with your tax office.
By exploring these different options, you will be able to find the financing solution best suited to your situation and make your solar carport project a reality.
Criteria for choosing a photovoltaic carport
Choosing the right photovoltaic carport is an important step to optimise your solar energy production and benefit from a shelter for your vehicle. Several criteria must be taken into account to make the best choice, ranging from location to the necessary power, including design.
Ideal location to maximise production
The location of your solar carport is crucial for its performance. A south-facing exposure is generally recommended to capture maximum solar radiation throughout the day. Avoid shaded areas by trees or buildings, as shade significantly reduces electricity production. A sunshine study can be useful to determine the optimal location. Also consider accessibility for electrical connection.
Area to cover and necessary power
The area of your carport must be adapted to your needs in terms of shelter for your vehicles. If you only have one vehicle to shelter, plan for a space of at least 26 m². For several vehicles, a larger carport, up to 40 m², will be necessary. The power of the photovoltaic installation will depend on your electricity consumption and your desire for self-consumption or resale of surplus. It is important to properly assess your energy needs to choose the ideal power for your installation.
Design and architectural integration
The design of your solar carport is an element not to be overlooked, as it must integrate harmoniously with your environment. Different materials are available, such as wood or metal, and different architectural styles can be considered. It is important to choose a design that matches your tastes and respects the aesthetics of your home. Also consider the integration of cables and inverters for an optimal aesthetic result. Do not hesitate to consult examples of realisations to inspire you and find the style that suits you best. It is possible to find a photovoltaic carport that combines functionality and aesthetics.
Energy savings achievable with a solar carport
Significant reduction in electricity bills
A solar carport represents a tangible opportunity to reduce your energy expenses. By producing your own electricity, you reduce your dependence on the public grid and, consequently, the amount of your bills. Solar energy is free and abundant, making it a long-term economic solution.
Installing a solar carport can significantly reduce your electricity bills, especially if you consume a significant portion of the energy produced.
Here is a simplified illustration of potential savings:
| Factor | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Annual production of a solar carport | 3,000 kWh |
| Average electricity cost (per kWh) | €0.20 |
| Potential annual savings | €600 |
Achieving greater energy independence
Installing a solar carport allows you to gain energy independence. By producing your own electricity, you are less dependent on fluctuations in energy prices and the vagaries of the electricity grid. This autonomy is particularly interesting in rural or isolated areas, where power outages can be frequent. In addition, if you own an electric vehicle, you can use the energy produced by your carport to charge it, thus reducing your fuel costs and your carbon footprint. This is a step towards increased energy autonomy.
The valorisation of your property
A solar carport is an undeniable asset for your property. It not only improves its aesthetics, but also its value on the real estate market. Buyers are increasingly sensitive to environmental issues and the energy performance of homes. A solar carport, as a sustainable and economical installation, can therefore make your property more attractive and increase its value. It is an investment that benefits both your wallet and the environment. Consider the positive impact on the value of your property when reselling.
Key points to consider for property valuation:
- The overall energy performance of the dwelling.
- The durability and quality of the materials used.
- The aesthetic integration of the solar carport into the existing architecture.
Maintenance and durability of a solar carport
Good practices for maintaining efficiency
To guarantee optimal performance and a long lifespan for your solar carport, regular maintenance is essential. This mainly involves cleaning the photovoltaic panels. Dust, leaves, and other debris can reduce the efficiency of energy production. It is advisable to clean the panels once or twice a year, using water and a soft brush. Avoid abrasive products that could damage the surface of the panels. Regular visual inspection helps detect any problems, such as damaged cables or loose fixings.
- Clean solar panels regularly (1 to 2 times a year).
- Visually inspect components (cables, fixings).
- Avoid using abrasive cleaning products.
The lifespan of photovoltaic panels
The lifespan of photovoltaic panels is an important factor to consider when investing in a solar carport. In general, manufacturers offer a performance guarantee of 20 to 25 years. However, the actual lifespan of the panels can be significantly longer, often exceeding 30 years. This longevity is due to the robustness of the materials used and the design of the panels. It is important to note that the performance of the panels decreases slightly over time, but this degradation is generally low, around 0.5% per year. Thus, even after 25 years, the panels can still produce a significant amount of electricity.
Guarantees offered by manufacturers and installers
The guarantees offered by manufacturers and installers are an essential element to consider when purchasing a solar carport. There are generally two types of guarantees: the product guarantee and the performance guarantee. The product guarantee covers manufacturing defects and material problems for a specified period, often 10 to 12 years. The performance guarantee ensures that the panels will produce a certain level of electricity for a longer period, generally 20 to 25 years. It is crucial to fully understand the terms and conditions of these guarantees before making a decision. Also ensure that the installer offers a warranty on their work, covering any installation problems. Do not hesitate to ask for clarification on claim procedures and repair times. Solargie can help you install your solar carport.
It is important to keep all documents relating to the installation of your solar carport, including invoices, warranty contracts, and conformity certificates. These documents will be essential in case of a problem or claim. In addition, regular monitoring of your installation’s electricity production will allow you to quickly detect any anomaly and take the necessary measures.
| Warranty Type | Typical Duration | Coverage
For your solar carport to last a long time and remain efficient, good maintenance is essential. Learn how to take care of it and discover all our tips to maximise its lifespan on our website!
Conclusion
In summary, the solar carport is a great idea for saving money and helping the planet. But be careful, there are conditions to fully benefit from it, especially if you want aid. You need to be well informed about the procedures, types of panels, and possible subsidies. It’s an investment, yes, but one that can pay off big in the long run. So, if you have a project, take the time to prepare your move well so that it works like a charm!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a solar carport and how does it work?
A solar carport is a shelter for your car that has solar panels on its roof. These panels capture energy from the sun to convert it into electricity. It’s practical because it protects your car and produces clean energy at the same time.
Can you really get a “free” solar carport thanks to aid?
Yes, there are several aids! The State gives a premium if you use the electricity you produce (self-consumption). You can also sell the surplus electricity to EDF. And sometimes, there is aid from your region or your city.
What are the conditions for receiving financial aid?
To receive aid, your installation must comply with certain rules, such as the power of the panels. The company that installs the carport must be RGE certified (Recognised Guarantor of the Environment). Your home must also meet certain criteria, for example, being your main residence.
Do I need special authorisations to install a solar carport?
Yes, there are forms to fill out. For small carports, a simple declaration of works at the town hall is sufficient. For larger ones, you need to apply for a building permit. And once everything is installed, you need to obtain a certificate called CONSUEL to verify that the installation is safe.
How to optimise the financing of your solar carport?
To properly finance your carport, the best way is to combine the various aids available. VAT is sometimes reduced, which lowers the cost. And if necessary, there are special loans for works that help save energy.
How to choose the right solar carport for my home?
You need to choose a place where the sun shines well all day so that the panels produce as much electricity as possible. The size of the carport will depend on the space you have and the amount of electricity you want to produce. Also think about its look so that it integrates well with your home.
What are the advantages of a solar carport for my electricity bills?
With a solar carport, you produce your own electricity. This means you buy less electricity from your supplier, so your bills decrease significantly. You also become more energy independent. And what’s more, a house with a solar carport increases in value!
How to maintain a solar carport and how long does it last?
For it to work well for a long time, you need to clean the panels from time to time. Solar panels are strong and last a long time, often more than 25 years. Manufacturers and installers provide guarantees, so you are covered in case of a problem.
