The year 2019 marked an important milestone for photovoltaics, both globally and in France. Solar installations multiplied, prices continued to fall, and solar electricity production reached new heights. Yet, behind these figures, there are also challenges: international competition, adapting networks, and evolving public policies. In this article, we take stock of photovoltaics in 2019, focusing on outcomes, trends, and prospects for the years ahead.
Key Points to Remember
- In 2019, global installed photovoltaic capacity reached a new milestone, driven mainly by China, the United States and India.
- France continued to develop its solar installations, with a very uneven distribution according to regions.
- The cost of solar energy decreased further, making photovoltaics more competitive compared to other sources of electricity.
- Technical innovations, such as bifacial modules or high-efficiency cells, are gaining ground and changing the market.
- The fall in prices has intensified competition, putting pressure on European manufacturers, while China and the US strengthen their dominant positions.
State of Global Photovoltaic Production in 2019
Main Solar Electricity Producing Countries
Despite a slowdown in growth, China largely dominated the global photovoltaic scene in 2019. It alone accounted for 26% of the new installations market with 30.1 GWp added during the year. After China, the United States, India and Japan led the pack, as Europe saw renewed momentum, notably thanks to Germany, Spain and the Netherlands. Noteworthy also is the strong push from countries such as Vietnam and Australia, making their mark through rapid capacity growth.
- China: 30.1 GWp installed in 2019
- United States: 13.3 GWp
- India: 9.9 GWp
- Japan: 7 GWp
- Vietnam: 4.8 GWp
Installed Capacities and Market Growth
At the end of 2019, cumulative global photovoltaic capacity reached around 627 GWp.
| Year | Global installed capacity (GWp) | Annual progression |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 402 | +32% |
| 2018 | 560 | +39% |
| 2019 | 627 | +12% |
Even though growth is slowing compared with previous years, the market structure is evolving. Outside China, many domestic markets are accelerating, with some even doubling their annual volume: Europe reached 21 GWp installed in 2019. The installation of small and large solar power stations is becoming widespread, both in industrialised countries and in emerging regions.
In 2019, the expansion of the photovoltaic sector established itself as a worldwide phenomenon, extending beyond just the Asian giants.
How the Energy Mix is Evolving Thanks to Photovoltaics
The development of solar photovoltaics is gradually changing the global energy mix. Its integration into electricity production is starting to become significant in several countries, notably in Europe. For example, Spain saw the share of solar exceed 10% of its generation, thanks to favourable policies and falling costs. Globally, however, the share of photovoltaics remains moderate yet clearly increasing.
- Proportion of worldwide electricity from PV at the end of 2019: around 3%
- In some European countries (Spain, Germany, Netherlands), the share exceeds 10%
- Solar integration is facilitated by storage solutions, essential to deal with intermittency, as highlighted in the importance of storage in the energy transition.
The assessment for 2019: photovoltaics continues to expand and is increasingly establishing itself as a pillar of the global energy transition, with highly promising prospects for the coming decades.
Analysis of Photovoltaic Production in France in 2019
Installed Capacity Nationwide
The year 2019 saw a significant increase in installed solar panel capacity in France. The total capacity is approaching 9.5 GW across the country, representing steady growth since the start of the decade. This evolution is based both on the integration of new ground-mounted plants and the strongly encouraged development of residential solar.
| Year | Installed capacity (GW) |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 7.7 |
| 2018 | 8.5 |
| 2019 | 9.5 |
It should be noted that the expansion of the French photovoltaic sector relies largely on incentive measures introduced by the State to support the energy transition. National calls for tenders, particularly for large ground-mounted installations, have helped sustain this growth rate.
Geographical Distribution of Solar Installations
The distribution of photovoltaic plants in France is still highly contrasting. Regions that benefit from more sunshine, such as Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Occitanie, and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, concentrate the bulk of operational capacity. Conversely, Northern Europe and some less-exposed regions are still lagging behind.
- South-West: largest number of residential installations and ground-mounted plants
- South-East: high concentration of large solar farms
- North and East: still modest development, but visible growth in 2019
The French solar map reveals the direct influence of the local climate on project locations. Where sunshine is abundant, solar investment is naturally favoured.
Contribution to National Electricity Consumption
In 2019, solar electricity production covered about 2.2% of total electricity consumption in France—a production just over 10 TWh for the year. Even though this share is still modest compared to other European countries such as Germany or Spain, momentum is definitely building.
Here’s an overview of this evolution in recent years:
| Year | Production (TWh) | Share of national consumption (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 8.6 | 1.8 |
| 2018 | 9.6 | 2.0 |
| 2019 | 10.2 | 2.2 |
To put things in perspective, France has seen this contribution increase in recent years, but it remains behind the European average, which is close to 4.5%, providing 4.6% of electricity.
In summary, 2019 confirms that the photovoltaic sector is continuing to grow, but still has challenges to overcome in order to make a bigger impact on the French electricity mix, notably by increasing its share in less sunny areas and optimising its overall energy contribution.
Levelised Cost of Solar Energy and Trends in 2019
Gradual Fall in the Cost of Photovoltaic Equipment
The cost of photovoltaic installations continued a spectacular decline in 2019. For about a decade, world solar prices have been in constant decline, making solar’s competitiveness far more realistic against other means of generation. It’s estimated that, between 2010 and 2019 alone, the levelised cost of energy (LCOE) for grid-connected photovoltaics fell by 82%. For polycrystalline modules, the decrease was even 90% over the period. This drop is mainly due to standardisation of equipment, more efficient production lines, and booming global demand.
Today, it has become possible to contemplate a profitable solar installation in many contexts, both for individuals and for businesses with suitable rooftops.
Comparison with Other Renewable Energy Sources
To better situate photovoltaics, it’s useful to compare the levelised cost of solar to other forms of generation. Here’s a summary table of average costs (LCOE) in different countries in 2019:
| Energy source | Low LCOE (€/MWh) | High LCOE (€/MWh) |
|---|---|---|
| Solar photovoltaic | 29 | 120 |
| Onshore wind | 33 | 75 |
| Nuclear | 95 | 150 |
| Coal | 70 | 110 |
Thus, in regions with strong sunlight, solar now surpasses coal and nuclear in terms of price per kilowatt-hour. In addition, guaranteed feed-in tariffs for solar production, such as those offered by some suppliers solar with EDF ENR, have contributed to this trend by offering visibility and financial security for investors.
Impact of Public Policies on Costs
The influence of public policy is far from negligible:
- Implementation of incentive feed-in tariffs and support mechanisms
- Simplification of administrative procedures for solar projects
- Investment support and subsidies, especially for individuals
These measures have driven the sector and accelerated cost reductions. That said, the end of some aid or a change in regulations might reverse the trend, forcing the sector to constantly adapt. For example, fluctuations in the spread on wholesale electricity markets can have an effect on solar business models, as highlighted by the recent rise noted in 2025 by the spread on the wholesale electricity markets.
In summary, the dynamics behind the falling cost of solar in 2019 rely on a combination of technological progress, economies of scale, public policies, and increased market competition. Photovoltaics thus stands out as one of the most competitive energy sources for the coming decade.
Technical Progress and Innovations in Solar Modules
New Efficiencies Achieved by Photovoltaic Cells
The year 2019 marked a clear advance in performance for photovoltaic cells. Cells now achieve efficiencies above 22% in industrial production, compared to 17–19% only five years ago. This increase was made possible through the development of multi-layer technologies and better mastery of manufacturing processes.
These advances don’t just translate into increased power. They also allow for more compact installations for the same surface area, making urban integration easier and reducing the overall cost per kWh generated.
Moreover, the arrival of bifacial or heterojunction modules opens the way to higher performance by capturing light from both sides or using innovative materials such as amorphous silicon.
Emergence of Hybrid and Bifacial Solutions
Diversification of technologies is confirmed, notably with the integration of hybrid solutions. These modules combine electricity generation and thermal management through association with heat pumps or solar water heaters. Bifacial modules, meanwhile, capture light reflected from the ground, increasing recoverable energy, especially on light surfaces or in snowy environments.
List of main innovative solutions in 2019:
- Heterojunction (HJT) solar cells for higher yields under low light
- Bifacial modules deployed on large solar fields
- Photovoltaic-thermal combinations integrated into buildings
- Development of organic cells for specific applications (organic solar panels)
Role of European and International Research
Research activity has never been stronger, supported by international collaborations and the need to innovate in the face of global competition. European centres are multiplying patents and investing in the standardisation of more durable, less resource-intensive, and easier-to-recycle modules.
Below, a structured overview of research directions:
| Focus Area | Concrete Examples |
|---|---|
| Efficiency | Perovskite cells, HJT, fine interconnections |
| Durability | Special glass, reinforced encapsulants |
| Flexibility | Flexible modules for roofing and BIPV integration |
| Environmental impact | Recycling, organic materials, low energy consumption |
Europe, while bolstering its industrial sector, is also taking tangible action to ensure the quality of installations: comparisons of certified quotes, choosing reputable brands, and positive user feedback (feedback on Synexium).
Impact of the Fall in Prices on the Photovoltaic Sector
The rapid drop in photovoltaic prices in 2019 has transformed the entire sector. This change has triggered intense competition, industrial upheaval, and a reorientation of strategies in Europe and worldwide.
Overcapacity and Worldwide Competitive Pressure
In 2019, the proliferation of factories, particularly in Asia, led to a situation of overcapacity. The main effects were felt on:
- Reduced margins for all players.
- Easier access to modules for new markets.
- Intensifying price wars, particularly among Chinese, American and European producers.
| Main Producing Countries (2019) | Market share (%) |
|---|---|
| China | 67 |
| USA | 8 |
| Europe (total) | 6 |
| Others | 19 |
Companies must quickly adapt to particularly aggressive Asian manufacturers or risk exiting the market.
Consequences for European Companies
For European manufacturers, the continuous fall in prices has had a paradoxical effect. While it has encouraged the development of new installations, the production sector has seen:
- Closures or relocations of historic factories.
- Job losses in local panel manufacturing industries.
- Difficulty facing competition marked by heavy subsidies abroad.
Some manufacturers have sought to stand out through innovation or by better controlling connection costs optimising the solar budget.
Market Dynamics in China and the United States
China largely dominates global production, enjoying massive economies of scale. The United States, for its part, is focusing on technology and moving upmarket. Recent trends include:
- Emergence of Chinese « super-factories » supplying almost all global demand.
- US strategies focused on added value and trade protection.
- Diversification by players seeking growth opportunities outside their domestic markets.
European companies are trying to position themselves in market segments where price competition is weaker, such as high-value technical products or those dedicated to agricultural self-consumption, often backed by specific tax schemes agricultural PV tax regime.
In summary, 2019 marks a phase when solar competitiveness has never been stronger, but this dynamic mainly benefits Asian giants. European industries, for their part, need to speed up their transformation or risk disappearing from the most competitive markets.
Industrial Outlook for Europe in the Face of International Competition
The European ambitions for photovoltaics in 2019 are facing a tense reality. The growing dominance of China and the United States is forcing the European industry to rethink its strategies, both in production and innovation. The solar industry is struggling to hold on, with Europe’s share of global production falling from nearly 30% to under 3% in a decade. This loss of industrial leadership poses many challenges for the European Union.
Initiatives to Relocate Solar Panel Production
Several projects have been launched to reverse the trend and install or expand solar panel manufacturing units on the European continent:
- Construction of a mega-factory in Moselle, supported by Franco-Chinese partnerships, to guarantee a production capacity of 2 GWp per year.
- Merger of historic manufacturers such as Systovi (Nantes) and Voltec Solar (Alsace), aiming to reach 1 GWp of production per year.
- Launch of specialised sites, such as that of the Swiss group Meyer Burger in Germany, focusing on heterojunction technology (efficiency gains of 6 to 7% compared to standard modules).
Europe is trying to regain its place in solar manufacturing, focusing on technical innovation and institutional support, yet still challenged by weak private sector involvement.
Industrial Projects of Common Interest at the European Level
The promotion of Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) occupies a central place in the recovery strategy:
- IPCEI makes it possible to circumvent some EU restrictions on state aid.
- The objective is to establish a framework similar to the one that enabled the rise of Airbus in batteries.
- These projects are designed to spur massive investments, including in research and development.
A summary table of the main emerging projects:
| Project | Country | Target capacity | Key technology |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rec Solar mega-factory | France | 2 GWp/year | Heterojunction |
| Systovi/Voltec merger | France | 1 GWp/year | Advanced silicon |
| Meyer Burger | Germany | 1.4 GWp/year | Heterojunction |
Producer Strategies to Improve Their Competitiveness
In a context marked by falling international prices and Asian competition,
European manufacturers are exploring several ways to strengthen their position:
- Increased automation of production lines to reduce fixed costs and improve flexibility.
- Development of strategic partnerships with research centres, such as those behind industrial solar solutions in France, promoted by major groups to cut emissions while stimulating local industry.
- Promoting European strengths: proximity to demand, stringent environmental standards, and the ability to produce premium modules better suited to the local market.
The return of a European solar industry will depend largely on its ability to innovate, to create integrated industrial sectors, and to benefit from strong political will at the Union level, while dealing with price pressures from Asia and the US.
Role of Self-Consumption in the Rise of Photovoltaics 2019
Self-consumption emerged in 2019 as a driving force behind the growth of photovoltaics in France. More and more households have chosen to produce and consume their own solar electricity, in response to constantly rising energy prices and a desire to get involved locally in the transition. The momentum of self-consumption is largely based on a system of incentives and public support. Households benefited from investment bonuses, decreasing according to the size of the installation, making the switch easier.
Here are the principal incentives existing in 2019:
- A self-consumption bonus, paid according to installed capacity
- An advantageous feed-in tariff for excess power injected into the grid
- Reduced tax measures depending on the project
All of these measures contributed to the emergence of a dynamic market, where the notion of controlling one’s own electricity production became very tangible for individuals, as demonstrated by the development reported in ADEKWATTS’ analysis.
Technical Constraints Linked to Energy Management
While self-consumption is appealing, it comes with specific constraints. The first difficulty: solar electricity production reaches its peak in the middle of the day, just when household consumption is often lowest. This mismatch requires changes in usage, or the use of smart management equipment (appliance control, load shedding).
Other points to watch:
- The need for a reliable connection to the public grid to export surplus production
- Managing solar intermittency with or without local storage
- Matching self-production capacity to the actual needs of the household
One of the main challenges is still ensuring optimal synchronisation between the production profile and consumption habits, to maximise the self-consumption rate.
Adapting Consumption to Solar Production Peaks
To make the most of generated electricity, users are encouraged to adjust their consumption. Scheduling appliances (washing machines, water heaters, electric vehicle charging) for the middle of the day is good practice. Some choose control boxes that automatically trigger appliances at peak production times.
Here are a few common adaptation methods in 2019:
- Using programmable timers or smart home systems to control flexible consumption
- Investing in storage solutions to smooth out consumption over 24 hours
- Conducting a consumption profile audit to correctly size the installation
Connection to the public grid remains essential, even for self-generators, to export surplus not consumed immediately, as explained in this reminder on the importance of connection.
All in all, self-consumption made it easier for photovoltaics to become part of everyday life in 2019, while raising new questions about the optimal management and value of electricity produced at home.
Solar Energy Storage: Advances and Issues
The growth of solar in 2019 has made storage of electricity essential for overcoming the limits of intermittency. This development affects both mature markets and remote areas. Here’s an overview of the advances, options, and obstacles, illustrated by current developments in the sector.
Falling Costs for Battery Technologies
The price of batteries has dropped enormously in recent years. In 2019, the price of a lithium-ion battery was about half what it was just two years earlier. This fall is the result of several factors:
- Large-scale manufacturing, mainly in Asia (Japan, Korea, China)
- Improved efficiency and energy density thanks to research
- Reduced size and easier integration into solar installations
| Year | Average price (€/MWh) | Type of market |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 400-450 | Remote areas |
| 2019 | 250 | Overseas Territories, non-interconnected zones |
However, profitability still depends on purpose and context: in poorly-connected regions or where fossil energy is expensive to transport, battery storage sometimes becomes the logical solution, as in Réunion or Indonesia.
Physical storage adoption is justified mainly where the grid is unreliable, but virtual storage is also gaining traction in Europe, offering more flexibility to optimise solar self-consumption without the need for expensive equipment. Virtual photovoltaic storage, for instance, lets users accumulate an energy credit instead of physically storing the surplus at home.
Integrating Storage in Non-Interconnected Zones
- On islands or territories without mainland connection, grid balance often depends on small diesel units, which are very costly.
- Integrating batteries with solar installations can reduce reliance on imported fuels.
- Several contracts won by European companies show that solar combined with storage is already viable in these contexts.
In 2019, this set-up accounted for tens of megawatts and is increasing, driven by network stabilisation and the energy independence it provides.
Future Development in Smart Grids
With advances in digital technology and connected devices, storage is reaching a new dimension. Here are three clear trends:
- Development of urban or rural microgrids managed by artificial intelligence
- Increased communication between solar installations, batteries, and public grids to ease or support consumption at optimal times
- Emergence of virtual or shared storage solutions, enabling capacity sharing among several users as needed
The combination of physical storage, virtual solutions, and smart grids forms the sector’s future. This technological alliance will facilitate renewable energy integration everywhere, while paving the way for CO2 emission reductions, reinforcing the idea that solar energy is now indispensable in tomorrow’s energy mix. This trend, especially illustrated by the rise of virtual batteries, puts storage at the heart of discussions on competitiveness and energy security.
Specific Applications and Emerging Markets for Photovoltaics
Photovoltaics is no longer just about generating electricity on urban rooftops. In 2019, new applications and unexpected markets saw solar power emerge in a wide variety of fields, with the flexibility of this technology providing solutions to specific energy needs.
Electrifying Remote and Rural Areas
In many countries, access to electricity remains an everyday challenge for a large proportion of the population. Solar energy shows its full potential here for electrifying areas lacking conventional infrastructure.
- Rapid deployment of stand-alone systems (solar kits, mini-grids)
- Overall cost often lower than extending traditional electricity networks
- Reduced reliance on polluting diesel generators
Thanks to off-grid solutions, solar energy has become the main source of electricity for many isolated villages in recent years.
Use in Mobility and Autonomous Devices
In 2019, photovoltaics made advances in new areas of mobility and autonomous energy:
- Powering solar vehicles for urban or rural use
- Deployment of solar charging stations for bikes or scooters
- Integration into portable devices: lamps, sensors, weather stations
The rise of autonomous devices depends largely on advances in solar modules, which are becoming lighter and more efficient every year.
Solar Roll-out in Developing Countries
The photovoltaic market has grown rapidly in many countries in the Global South, thanks to industrial partnerships, international funding, and support policies that make investment more accessible. According to analyses, growth is especially dynamic in Africa and South-East Asia, where demand is rising rapidly.
Table 1: Distribution of new solar capacity installed in 2019 (outside EU, GW)
| Region | Added capacity (GW) |
|---|---|
| Sub-Saharan Africa | 2.3 |
| South-East Asia | 5.1 |
| Latin America | 3.7 |
| Middle East | 2.0 |
The growth in these markets is also tied to suitable regulatory measures, such as easier access to aid and tariffs adapted to each project. For project developers, regulations, particularly for large-scale installations, remain a key stage specific regulation in 2025.
In summary, these emerging applications show that decentralised production and energy self-sufficiency have become major assets for photovoltaics on every continent.
Support Policies and Regulations Favouring Photovoltaics in 2019
In 2019, the policy and regulatory framework for photovoltaics was one of the main drivers of the sector’s development. The authorities made significant adjustments to schemes and incentives to encourage both professional investment and individual engagement in solar power generation.
Tax Measures and Feed-in Tariffs
Guaranteed feed-in tariffs remain the central support tool for the solar sector. These systems guarantee a fixed price for electricity injected into the grid, over an average period of 15 to 20 years. This provides financial security for projects, for both individuals and industry. Alongside tariffs, reduced-specific tax rates on installations—such as reduced VAT on certain equipment—help reduce installation costs for households.
Summary table of the main support measures (France, 2019):
| Mechanism | Typical duration | Level of support |
|---|---|---|
| Feed-in tariff | 15 to 20 years | High |
| Self-consumption bonus | Single (initial subsidy) | Moderate |
| Reduced VAT | On purchase | Limited |
For a global overview of public expenditure, see the report on renewable energy support for an inventory of existing measures.
Influence of National and European Recovery Plans
National aid policies in 2019 were built around structural programmes, partially financed by European funds. These plans aimed to accelerate the energy transition and stimulate private investment in solar. Several goals were pursued:
- Supporting local employment through the development of industrial sectors
- Making finance more accessible for new projects
- Launching tenders to encourage competition and innovation
European programmes, meanwhile, activated lines of credit and prompted the coordination of national policies. This European dynamic enabled some countries to catch up in terms of installed capacity.
Public support is not just financial; above all, it provides the stability and predictability the sector needs to invest massively over the long haul.
Structural Obstacles and Recent Developments
Even in 2019, the photovoltaic sector faced persistent barriers. The difficulties encountered are not strictly related to costs or tax measures. Several other aspects come into play:
- Persistent administrative complexity for obtaining permits
- Sometimes long delays for grid connection
- Unstable local planning regulations
Efforts have nevertheless been made to make panel installation easier, particularly through the standardisation of procedures and the spread of quality labels, as explained on the page detailing regulations on superimposed installations.
The sector in 2019 remained dependent on regulatory changes, but the trend has been towards gradual simplification and greater visibility for those involved.
Climatic Factors and Variability in Production in 2019
The year 2019 once again illustrated that photovoltaic production depends on uneven climatic conditions from one region to another, and even from day to day. This strong dependence affects the reliability of solar electricity input and makes it necessary to rethink grid balancing. Natural factors, together with some technical developments, play a central role in the intermittency observed throughout the year.
Influence of Regional Sunshine
The amount of energy captured by solar panels depends heavily on the level of sunshine at the installation site. Some regions benefit from a natural advantage:
| Region | Annual sunshine (hours) | Capacity factor (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Southern France | 2,500 to 2,900 | 14-19 |
| Northern France | 1,600 to 1,900 | 10-13 |
| Spain (South) | 2,800 to 3,100 | 20 |
| Germany (Average) | 1,400 to 1,700 | 11 |
In regions with high irradiation, as seen in areas near the equator or deserts, the profitability of solar is naturally higher (examples of high yields).
Management of Seasonal Intermittency
Seasonal variability unfolds in cycles:
- Maximum production during the summer months, when daylight hours are longest.
- Strong declines in winter, linked to shorter days and adverse weather.
- The effect of cloud cover, sometimes sudden, which changes production minute by minute.
In France, for example, the Christmas week of 2019 saw significant daily variation, from very low values to peaks during better weather.
Innovations to Improve Production Forecasting
Several approaches are being prioritised to smooth the impact of this intermittency:
- Deployment of weather sensors and advanced imaging systems to track cloud formation.
- More accurate forecasting models, incorporating both historical data and real-time sunshine levels.
- Adaptation of power grids, enabling adjustment of contributions from alternative sources such as wind or hydro.
Controlling climatic variability remains a challenge for the photovoltaic sector. Meeting this challenge involves combining better forecasting tools, energy storage, and greater network flexibility. Solar dynamics, while unpredictable in the short-term, can be better exploited thanks to these developments, making solar’s share more easily integrated into the European energy mix.
In 2019, the weather greatly influenced solar energy production. When the weather is fine, panels produce more. On the other hand, if it rains or the sky is overcast, production falls. Many other simple things like wind or temperature can also make a big difference. Want to know more about solar and how to benefit from it? Discover all the info and advice on our website!
Conclusion
In summary, 2019 marked a major milestone for photovoltaics, with rising production and falling costs. Technical progress, lower panel prices and supportive public policies have enabled this energy source to gain ground, both in France and worldwide. Nevertheless, challenges remain, notably issues of storage and grid integration. Prospects are encouraging, especially with the arrival of new technologies and the desire to bring some production back to Europe. The evolution of the market should be closely monitored, but it’s clear that photovoltaics is increasingly establishing itself as a serious solution for meeting tomorrow’s energy needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is photovoltaic energy?
Photovoltaic energy is a way of generating electricity using sunlight. Solar panels transform this light into electricity that can be used in homes or businesses.
How does a solar panel work?
A solar panel captures sunlight with small cells. These cells convert the light into electricity, which can then be used or stored in batteries.
Why did the cost of solar panels fall in 2019?
The price of solar panels fell thanks to better manufacturing techniques and an increase in production, especially in Asia. This makes solar energy more affordable worldwide.
Does France produce a lot of solar electricity?
In 2019, France increased its solar electricity generation, but it still lags behind countries like Germany, China, or the US. However, the share of solar in France’s electricity continues to grow every year.
Can solar energy be used everywhere in France?
Yes, panels can be installed anywhere, but southern regions get more sunshine and thus produce more electricity. In the north, generation is a little lower due to the climate.
Is solar energy good for the environment?
Yes, solar energy does not pollute the air and does not produce greenhouse gases. It’s a clean way to generate electricity without harming the planet.
What if I produce more electricity than I use?
If you generate more electricity than you need, you can store it in batteries or sell it to an electricity supplier. That means nothing goes to waste.
Are there subsidies for installing solar panels?
Yes, in France, there are grants and subsidies to encourage people to install solar panels. These subsidies make installation more affordable and reduce the total cost.
