Have you decided to go solar with a plug and play kit? That’s an excellent idea to reduce your electricity bill and do your bit for the planet. But be aware, even though these systems are simple to install, there are a few steps you mustn’t forget. To ensure your installation is above board, you need to follow three main steps. We’ll go through them together, so your plug and play solar panel declaration goes smoothly.

Key Points to Remember

• Prior declaration to the local council is mandatory if your panel is fixed at a height or exceeds 1.8 metres, or if the total power exceeds 3 kWp.
• The Self-Consumption Without Injection Agreement (CACSI) is a free and essential step to take online with Enedis, even if it doesn’t require validation.
• The Enedis declaration is a formal step that officialises your installation and ensures its compliance with the electricity grid.
• Plug and play solar panels of less than 3 kW and less than 1.8 metres in height from the ground generally do not need prior declaration to the local council.
• Although simple to use, plug and play solar kits require these administrative procedures to be followed to avoid problems.

1. Prior Declaration

Installing plug and play solar panels is generally simple, but some situations require a prior declaration to your local council. This is an administrative step not to be overlooked to avoid any subsequent problems. Basically, it’s like asking permission before doing work that could change the appearance of your house.

If your solar panel is fixed to the wall or roof and is more than 1.8 metres high, then a prior declaration is mandatory. Similarly, if you connect several plug and play solar panels and the total power exceeds 3 kWp, this formality becomes essential, even if the panels are less than 1.8 metres from the ground. It’s a bit like insurance that your installation complies with planning regulations.

It is important to note that, in most cases, it is not advisable to connect more than four plug and play solar kits in the same dwelling. This keeps you within the authorised power limits and simplifies the administrative procedures.

To compile your prior declaration file, you will need several documents. A site plan of your land, a layout plan of your construction, a description of the proposed works and photos of the current state of the land and existing buildings are generally required. Don’t hesitate to contact your local council’s planning department to obtain a comprehensive list of the documents to be provided. They will be able to guide you and answer your questions. Solencia offers photovoltaic services to support you in your efforts.

In summary, here are the cases where a prior declaration is necessary:

• Panel fixed to the wall or roof at a height of more than 1.8 metres.
• Total power of the panels greater than 3 kWp.
• Installation in a protected area (listed site, etc.).

If you are not sure whether you need to make a prior declaration, it is best to contact your local council. They will be able to advise you and save you from complications. Once the declaration has been submitted, the local council has a processing period, usually one month, to give you its response. If there is no response within this period, your application is considered accepted. In the event of an impossible connection to the database, check your internet connection and try again later.

2. Self-Consumption Without Injection Agreement

The Self-Consumption Without Injection Agreement (CACSI) is an essential step for any user of a plug and play solar panel. It provides a framework for the use of solar energy produced at your home, ensuring that you do not reinject electricity into the public grid. This process is free and is carried out online with Enedis.

It is important to note that this agreement is a simple declaration. It does not require validation from Enedis, which greatly simplifies the procedure. It officialises your installation and ensures that it complies with current standards.

The CACSI is an administrative formality that allows you to use your solar installation legally, without having to worry about the complications associated with reselling electricity.

Before you start, make sure you have the following information to hand:

• Your personal information (name, address, etc.).
• The technical characteristics of your self-consumption solar kit (power, type of inverter, etc.).
• Your Delivery Point Number (PDL), which you will find on your electricity bill.

Once the agreement has been completed and submitted, you will receive a confirmation. Keep this document safe, as you may be asked for it in the event of an inspection. In the event of a database error, check your internet connection and try again later. If the problem persists, contact Enedis support.

In summary, the CACSI is a simple, quick and free process, essential to fully enjoy the benefits of your plug and play solar installation. It allows you to use the energy you produce, without the risk of disrupting the public grid. Remember to complete it before plugging in your solar panel to comply with regulations.

3. Enedis Declaration

The declaration to Enedis is an important step when installing plug and play solar panels. It allows Enedis to be informed of your intention to install photovoltaic solar panels. This step is essential to ensure the safety and compliance of your installation.

To make this declaration, you must complete a form and submit it to Enedis. This form must be signed before your panels are installed. Here are the steps to follow to make your declaration:

1. Log in to your Enedis account or create one if you don’t have one.
2. Complete the declaration form, providing the information requested, such as the power of your installation and the area occupied by the panels.
3. Upload the required documents, including an inverter compliance certificate and a site plan of your address. Make sure you have a compliant installation before submitting your application.
4. Carefully review all the information provided and validate your application.

Once your application has been registered, you will receive an email inviting you to log in to your personal area to sign the CACSI agreement online. It is important to note that once your application has been made, you are considered to be in compliance, even if it has not yet been validated by Enedis. In the event of a database error, check your internet connection and try again.

The declaration to Enedis is a simple and quick process that can be done online. It is essential to ensure the safety and compliance of your plug and play solar panel installation. Remember to complete it before proceeding with the installation of your panels.

In summary, the declaration to Enedis is a mandatory step for any plug and play solar panel installation. It allows Enedis to be informed of your project and to ensure the compliance of your installation. Don’t hesitate to consult the Enedis website for more information and to make your declaration online. Make sure you complete the form correctly to avoid any delays in the processing of your application.

To find out everything you need to know about how to declare your installation to Enedis, visit our website now. It’s quick and easy!

In summary

Setting up a plug and play solar panel is a good idea to start producing your own electricity. You just need to remember the few forms to fill in. It’s simple, but you mustn’t forget them. Once that’s done, you can enjoy your installation without any worries. It’s a small step for the environment, and for your wallet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a “plug and play” solar panel?

A “plug and play” solar panel is a system that’s simple to use. You plug it directly into an electrical socket so that it produces electricity from the sun. There’s no need to do any major work or have any special electrical skills.

What does a “plug and play” solar kit consist of?

A “plug and play” solar kit is made up of several elements: the solar panel itself, a small device called a micro-inverter that transforms the electricity from the panel so that it can be used in your home, a support to place the panel on, and a cable to plug it into a socket. Sometimes there may be additional accessories, such as extension leads.

How does a “plug and play” solar panel work?

The solar panel captures sunlight and transforms it into electricity. The micro-inverter, often placed behind the panel, changes this electricity so that it can be used by your electrical appliances. The electricity produced by the panel thus directly powers your home, which allows you to consume less from the grid and save money.

Can “plug and play” solar panels be installed if you are a tenant?

Yes, absolutely! If you are a tenant and you have a balcony, a terrace or even a garden, you can install one or more “plug and play” solar panels. These installations are generally easy to move and do not require major modifications to the dwelling, making them suitable for tenants.

Can “plug and play” solar panels benefit from government aid?

No, unfortunately, “plug and play” solar panels are not eligible for government aid. To benefit from this aid, the installation generally has to be carried out by a qualified professional (RGE certified) and has to be connected in a more complex way to the electrical grid of your house.

What is the lifespan of a “plug and play” solar panel?

The lifespan of a “plug and play” solar panel is generally long, like that of conventional solar panels. It is estimated that they can operate effectively for 20 to 25 years, or even longer, still producing a good amount of electricity. The micro-inverter has a slightly shorter lifespan, but it is easy to replace.

Do you have to be a professional to install a “plug and play” solar panel?

It is not necessary to be an expert to install a “plug and play” solar panel. They are designed to be easily installed by anyone. Simply follow the instructions provided with the kit, place the panel on its support and plug it into an electrical socket. It’s very quick and easy.

How can I best place my “plug and play” solar panel so that it produces a lot of electricity?

To get the best performance from your panel, it is advisable to place it where it receives the most sunlight throughout the day, ideally facing south. You should also avoid shaded areas caused by trees, buildings or other obstacles. Some panels can even be moved to follow the sun and produce more electricity.