The article « Photovoltaic Buyback Tariffs: What Prices in 2026? » examines the evolution of solar electricity buyback tariffs in France. It analyses current trends, applicable regulations, and prospects for the year 2026. The objective is to inform owners of photovoltaic installations about the profitability of their projects and the strategies to adopt.
Key Points
- Photovoltaic electricity buyback tariffs are reviewed quarterly by the CRE, reflecting a general downward trend, particularly noticeable for the total sale of small installations.
- Self-consumption with surplus sale is becoming an increasingly advantageous strategy, notably thanks to the investment bonus, compared to total sale which is no longer accessible for installations under 9 kWc.
- The evolution of tariffs, with surplus bought back at a price much lower than grid electricity, strongly encourages the adoption of energy storage solutions, such as physical or virtual batteries.
- Installations over 100 kWc are now subject to simplified tenders, introducing a new dynamic for larger-scale projects.
- Given the decrease in buyback tariffs, the profitability of photovoltaic installations relies increasingly on direct self-consumption and surplus valorisation, requiring in-depth economic analysis to optimise return on investment.
Understanding the Evolution of Photovoltaic Buyback Tariffs
The landscape of solar electricity resale in France has undergone significant transformations in recent years. Understanding these changes is essential for anyone considering a photovoltaic installation or wishing to optimise an existing investment. Buyback tariffs, which determine the remuneration for electricity fed into the grid, are at the heart of this evolution.
How Solar Electricity Resale Works in France
In France, the solar electricity resale system is based on two main mechanisms. Firstly, total sale allows the entire production to be fed into the electricity grid, where it is bought back at a tariff fixed by contract for 20 years. Secondly, self-consumption with surplus resale offers the possibility of consuming one’s own production and selling only the excess. The latter model is gaining popularity, especially in light of tariff changes.
Mechanisms of Total Sale and Surplus Sale
Total sale guarantees a stable long-term income, but tariffs tend to decrease. Surplus sale, on the other hand, is more flexible and better suited to immediate consumption needs. The buyback tariff for surplus is generally lower than that for total sale, but it is supplemented by the self-consumption bonus for residential installations. It is important to note that for installations with a capacity of 9 kWc or less, total sale is no longer an eligible option, and the surplus buyback tariff is set at €0.04/kWh.
The Impact of Installation Capacity on Tariffs
The capacity of a photovoltaic installation, measured in kilowatts-peak (kWc), plays a determining role in setting buyback tariffs. Tariff decrees define different capacity bands, each associated with a specific schedule. For example, tariffs for installations of 9 to 36 kWc differ from those applied to installations of 36 to 100 kWc. Very large installations, over 100 kWc, are generally subject to simplified tenders, which can influence their potential profitability. The decrease in the cost of photovoltaic equipment, as observed in 2019, has helped make solar energy more competitive and has influenced the modulation of tariffs the evolution of photovoltaic costs.
The quarterly adjustment of tariffs by the Energy Regulation Commission (CRE) aims to reflect market changes and national renewable energy development objectives.
Analysis of EDF Buyback Tariffs for 2025
Total Sale Tariffs for Different Capacity Bands
For the last quarter of 2025, from 1 October to 31 December, the photovoltaic electricity buyback tariffs by EDF OA are known. It is important to note that for installations with a capacity of 9 kWc or less, total sale is no longer an eligible option. Tariffs therefore apply to higher capacity bands.
Here is an overview of the total sale tariffs for this period:
| Installation Capacity (kWc) | Total Sale Tariff (€/kWh) |
|---|---|
| 9 < P ≤ 36 | 0.1049 |
| 36 < P ≤ 100 | 0.0912 |
| 100 < P ≤ 500 | Subject to simplified tender |
These tariffs are set by decree S21 and are subject to quarterly adjustments by the Energy Regulation Commission (CRE), depending on various economic and market factors.
Surplus Resale Tariffs for Residential Installations
For owners of residential photovoltaic installations, particularly those engaged in self-consumption with surplus resale, buyback tariffs are also defined. The surplus resale tariff for small-capacity installations, i.e., those under 9 kWc, remains stable and is set at €0.04/kWh. This tariff is re-evaluated each quarter.
For higher capacity bands, the surplus resale tariffs are as follows:
| Installation Capacity (kWc) | Surplus Resale Tariff (€/kWh) |
|---|---|
| 9 < P ≤ 36 | 0.0617 |
| 36 < P ≤ 100 | 0.0617 |
The constant evolution of buyback tariffs, while aiming to reflect market conditions, directly impacts the profitability of solar projects. It is therefore essential to stay informed of the latest tariff updates to optimise the management of one’s installation.
Evolution of Self-Consumption Bonuses
The self-consumption bonus provides financial support for installations that choose to consume part of their electricity production. The amounts of this bonus vary depending on the installation’s capacity.
For the period considered in 2025, here are the bonus amounts:
- Installations from 0 to 9 kWc: €80/kWc
- Installations from 9 to 36 kWc: €160/kWc
- Installations from 36 to 100 kWc: €80/kWc
Since 2023, a significant change has been noted: this bonus is now paid in a single instalment, at the first billing period, whereas it was previously spread over five years. This measure aims to improve the cash flow of owners from the outset of their photovoltaic project. Eligibility for these bonuses is subject to the conditions defined by decree S21, which governs installations with a capacity of less than 100 kWc. It is advisable to consult the eligibility conditions to ensure you benefit from this scheme.
Historical Trends in Photovoltaic Buyback Tariffs
To fully understand where solar electricity buyback tariffs are heading today, we need to look back. Prices haven’t always been what they are now. They have seen significant evolution, especially a rather marked decrease.
The Progressive Decrease in Total Sale Tariffs Since 2011
When we look at the figures since 2011, the trend is clear: tariffs for selling all electricity produced have decreased. Initially, prices were quite high, which encouraged many people to get involved. For example, for installations under 9 kWc, prices were around 42.6 c€/kWh in 2011. But over time, and especially due to the decrease in the cost of panels and installations, these tariffs have been adjusted downwards. In 2025, for installations of 9 to 36 kWc, the total sale tariff is 10.49 c€/kWh. It should be noted that the smallest installations (under 9 kWc) are no longer eligible for total sale.
Here is a brief overview of this evolution:
| Year / Quarter | Total Sale Tariff (c€/kWh) for ≤ 9 kWc | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| 2011 | approx. 42.6 | Beginning with high tariffs |
| 2014 (Q4) | approx. 26.97 | Adjustment following market maturity |
| 2017 | approx. 20.4 | Stabilisation, start of self-consumption |
| 2021 (Q3) | approx. 15.21 | Continuous decrease due to costs and competition |
| 2025 (Q4) | N/A (not eligible) | Small installations no longer sell everything to the grid |
Evolution of Surplus Resale Tariffs Since 2017
The surplus resale mechanism, linked to self-consumption, is more recent, introduced in 2017. Its tariffs have also changed. Initially, they were around 10 c€/kWh. Then, we saw peaks, for example in 2023 when the tariff could reach about 13.39 c€/kWh for small installations. However, the recent trend shows a significant decrease. For the last quarter of 2025, the tariff for residential installations under 9 kWc has fallen to 4 c€/kWh. This is a rather drastic drop that changes the profitability outlook.
Factors Explaining the Decrease in Tariffs
Several reasons explain this general decrease in tariffs. Firstly, the cost of photovoltaic technologies has significantly decreased. Solar panels, inverters, all of this costs less than before. Secondly, there is a political will to promote self-consumption, i.e., consuming one’s own electricity rather than systematically reselling it. The Energy Regulation Commission (CRE) also adjusts tariffs every quarter based on the number of connected installations and grid balance. This frequent updating allows tariffs to remain in line with market reality and national renewable energy development objectives. The goal is to make photovoltaics accessible while managing integration into the electricity grid.
The decrease in buyback tariffs, particularly marked for the surplus sale of small installations, is prompting owners to reconsider their strategies. Self-consumption with storage is becoming an increasingly studied option to optimise the profitability of solar projects.
These developments clearly show the need to stay informed to make the right decisions regarding one’s photovoltaic installation. EDF OA buyback tariffs are a key element to monitor, especially for current or future projects. For example, the total sale tariff for installations between 9 and 36 kWc in 2025 is 10.49 c€/kWh.
Prospects for Photovoltaic Buyback Tariffs in 2026
Anticipating Quarterly Adjustments by the CRE
The Energy Regulation Commission (CRE) will very likely continue to adjust buyback tariffs each quarter. These adjustments will depend on the volumes of new installations connected and associated costs. It is therefore difficult to provide definitive figures for 2026, but the trend observed so far suggests a continuation of the decrease in total sale tariffs. The CRE bases its decisions on market analyses and production costs, aiming to maintain a balance between encouraging investment and controlling costs for the end consumer.
Potential Impact of Continued Tariff Decreases
If the current trend of decreasing tariffs continues, it will have notable consequences, particularly for small residential installations. The surplus buyback tariff for installations under 9 kWc, which could remain around 4 c€/kWh, is becoming less and less attractive for pure resale. This situation strengthens the economic interest of self-consumption, especially when combined with energy storage solutions. Owners will increasingly have to choose between reselling and directly consuming their production to optimise the profitability of their installation. The evolution of electricity prices on the grid also plays a role in this choice. For larger installations, tender mechanisms may offer more stable tariffs, but this will depend on the conditions set by the authorities.
Consequences for Small and Large Capacity Installations
For small-capacity installations (up to 9 kWc), the continued decrease in buyback tariffs makes total sale increasingly irrelevant. Self-consumption with surplus resale, although less profitable than before, remains an option. The installation of storage systems, such as batteries, is becoming an increasingly considered strategy to maximise self-consumption and reduce dependence on the grid. Owners will need to carefully evaluate the cost of storage against the savings made on their electricity bill. For larger installations, particularly those exceeding 100 kWc, the simplified tender process is the norm. These procedures aim to ensure competitive prices, but potential revenues can vary more depending on the results of these competitive bids. It is therefore important to follow the CRE’s announcements regarding buyback tariffs in 2025 to best anticipate the conditions for 2026.
The evolution of photovoltaic buyback tariffs in France shows a clear trend towards lower valuation of electricity fed into the grid. This dynamic is pushing market players to rethink their strategies, favouring self-consumption and storage to maximise the benefits of their solar installations. Owners must adapt to this new economic landscape to ensure the profitability of their projects.
Residential installations, particularly small ones, will see their return on investment lengthen if they rely solely on resale. Self-consumption, supplemented by storage solutions, appears to be the most promising path to optimise the profitability of these projects in the coming years. Larger installations, on the other hand, will have to contend with tender mechanisms, which will determine remuneration conditions.
Impact of Regulation on Photovoltaic Buyback Tariffs
French legislation strictly governs the photovoltaic sector, directly influencing solar electricity buyback tariffs. These regulations are evolving, particularly through tariff decrees, to adapt to national renewable energy development objectives and the decrease in technological costs. Understanding these frameworks is essential for anticipating the profitability of your installation.
The Role of Tariff Decrees in Setting Prices
Tariff decrees are the fundamental texts that define the conditions for buying back electricity produced by photovoltaic installations. They are revised periodically, generally every quarter, by the Energy Regulation Commission (CRE). These revisions take into account several factors: the decrease in equipment costs (panels, inverters), the number of new installations connected to the grid, and the objectives set by the Multiannual Energy Programme (PPE). Decree S21, for example, marked an important step in defining tariffs for the current period.
Buyback tariffs are therefore dynamic and reflect the evolution of the market and energy policies. They determine the prices at which EDF OA (Obligation d’Achat) or other distributors purchase the electricity you feed into the grid.
New Conditions for Installations over 100 kWc
For installations with a capacity exceeding 100 kWc, the regulatory framework has evolved. These projects no longer benefit from the fixed and uniform buyback tariffs of smaller installations. They are now subject to simplified tender procedures. These competitive bidding mechanisms aim to achieve more competitive prices, in line with the sector’s technological maturity. Potential revenues for these large installations therefore depend on the conditions set during these tenders, which can vary.
The move towards tenders for large capacities aims to integrate these projects more economically into the national energy landscape, while maintaining support for solar development.
Specifics of Installations in Non-Interconnected Areas
Photovoltaic installations located in Non-Interconnected Areas (ZNI) – i.e., islands and other territories isolated from the mainland grid – benefit from specific regulatory treatment. These areas have particular energy supply constraints, often relying on costly thermal power plants. To encourage the development of local renewable energies, buyback tariffs or support mechanisms may be more advantageous in these territories. The objective is to promote energy autonomy and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. The specific regulations for ZNIs aim to compensate for the additional costs associated with insularity and energy transmission. It is important to note that VAT for the installation of solar panels under 9 kWc saw its rate decrease on 1 October 2025, from 10% to 5.5%, a measure aimed at encouraging the adoption of solar energy.
Here is an overview of the applicable tariffs for the last quarter of 2025, which serve as a basis for anticipating future developments:
| Installation Capacity | Total Sale (€/kWh) | Surplus Sale (€/kWh) | Self-Consumption Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 < P ≤ 9 kWc | 0.00 | 0.04 | €80/kWc |
| 9 < P ≤ 36 kWc | 0.1049 | 0.0617 | €160/kWc |
| 36 < P ≤ 100 kWc | 0.0912 | 0.0617 | €80/kWc |
| 100 < P ≤ 500 kWc | Subject to simplified tender | – | – |
These tariffs are subject to quarterly adjustments by the CRE, and observed trends suggest a continued decrease in the coming years, making self-consumption and energy storage increasingly relevant strategies.
Profitability of Photovoltaic Installations in the Face of Current Tariffs
Economic Consequences of Tariff Decreases for Small Producers
The continuous decrease in solar electricity buyback tariffs has a direct impact on the profitability of photovoltaic installations, particularly the smaller ones. If you own a residential installation of less than 9 kWc, you can no longer opt for the total sale of your production. Furthermore, the surplus buyback tariff has fallen significantly. For example, it has dropped from higher levels to around 4 euro cents per kWh in 2025 for installations under 9 kWc. This situation considerably reduces the income you can expect from reselling your electricity.
Lengthening of the Return on Investment
With lower resale revenues, the time required to amortise the initial cost of your photovoltaic installation is lengthening. It now takes more years for the savings made and the revenues generated to cover the initial investment. This makes profitability based solely on electricity resale less attractive than before. It has therefore become essential to review one’s strategy to optimise the return on investment.
The Necessary Trade-off for Profitability
In the face of this tariff evolution, in-depth analysis is required. Self-consumption, i.e., consuming the electricity produced by your own solar panels, is becoming an increasingly attractive option. Combined with surplus resale, it allows for better valorisation of your production. The installation of storage systems, such as batteries, can also improve profitability by allowing you to store energy produced during the day for use in the evening or at night, thereby reducing your dependence on the grid and your electricity bills. It is important to compare the different options carefully to find the most suitable solution for your situation and financial objectives. Consider consulting the indexed tariffs to better anticipate future developments.
Self-Consumption as a Strategy in the Face of Photovoltaic Buyback Tariffs
In response to the evolution of solar electricity buyback tariffs, more and more owners are turning to self-consumption. This approach allows for the direct consumption of electricity produced by one’s solar panels, thereby reducing dependence on the grid and electricity bills. The idea is simple: the more you consume your own production, the less you need to buy electricity at often higher prices.
Advantages of Self-Consumption with Surplus Resale
Self-consumption with surplus resale has become a particularly interesting option. Instead of reselling all your production at a tariff that tends to decrease, you consume what you need and resell the rest. This allows for better valorisation of your solar production. The benefits are numerous:
- Reduction of the electricity bill: By consuming your own energy, you reduce your purchases from the traditional supplier.
- Additional income: The resale of surplus, even at a lower tariff, generates a small additional income.
- Contribution to the energy transition: You actively participate in the production of green and local energy.
Self-consumption allows for better control of energy expenses and makes the installation profitable in the long term.
The Growing Interest in Energy Storage
To optimise self-consumption, battery storage is becoming increasingly important. Batteries allow for the storage of surplus electricity produced during the day for use in the evening or during peak consumption periods. This maximises self-consumption and further reduces purchases from the grid. It is an ideal solution to overcome the issue of low-revenue surplus resale. The Zendure SolarFlow 2400 AC is an example of a domestic storage system that can greatly help with this, thanks to its modularity and ease of installation.
Comparison Between Self-Consumption and Total Sale
Total sale, where all electricity produced is resold to the grid, was once the norm. However, with the decrease in buyback tariffs, this option is less attractive, especially for small residential installations. Self-consumption with surplus resale offers increased flexibility and profitability. It allows for the benefits of solar energy production while adapting to current economic conditions. In 2025, for installations under 9 kWc, the surplus resale tariff has fallen to 4 c€/kWh, making storage and direct consumption even more relevant.
The evolution of buyback tariffs clearly pushes towards models where self-consumption is favoured. Adding a storage system allows for maximising the use of one’s own production and reducing dependence on the grid, thereby improving the overall profitability of the photovoltaic project.
Specifics of Obligation to Purchase (OA) Contracts
Contract Duration and Options After 20 Years
When you install solar panels and choose to resell the electricity produced, you generally sign an Obligation to Purchase (OA) contract with a mandated buyer, most often EDF OA. This contract has a fixed duration of 20 years. During this entire period, the buyback tariff is guaranteed and will not change. This is an important point for the financial planning of your project. But what happens once these 20 years are over?
At the end of the contract, several options are available to you. You can choose to stop reselling your electricity and consume it entirely, or store it. Another possibility is to negotiate a new sales contract with a buyer, which could be EDF OA or another company. The tariff conditions will then be those in effect at that time, potentially different from those of your initial contract. It is also possible that new regulations will be in place, offering other prospects. It is important to gather information on the contract exit conditions and available alternatives well before the end of the 20 years to anticipate as best as possible.
Cases of Exclusion from the EDF OA Contract
It is important to know that not all photovoltaic installations are eligible for the Obligation to Purchase contract with EDF OA. Certain conditions must be met. For example, installations whose capacity exceeds a certain threshold, or those that do not comply with certain technical or administrative standards, may be excluded. The connection request must also have been submitted before a certain deadline, according to the tariff decrees in force. Installations intended for collective self-consumption may also have specific arrangements. It is therefore essential to verify your eligibility with Enedis and EDF OA from the beginning of your project to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
The Role of EDF OA in Electricity Buyback
EDF OA, the designated body for the Obligation to Purchase, plays a central role in the support scheme for solar energy production in France. Its mandate is to purchase electricity produced by eligible photovoltaic installations at the tariffs set by the Energy Regulation Commission (CRE) and published by ministerial decree. This mechanism ensures stable and predictable remuneration for producers during the contract period, which is a key factor for project profitability. EDF OA manages contracts, ensures payment to producers, and oversees compliance with contractual conditions. It is an essential player for those wishing to resell their solar electricity production. The establishment of these contracts is a key step after submitting your connection request to Enedis.
Signing an Obligation to Purchase contract guarantees a fixed buyback tariff for 20 years, offering appreciable financial security for solar installation owners. However, it is essential to understand the eligibility conditions and long-term implications, particularly after the contract expires.
Buyback tariffs are degressive according to installation capacity, a mechanism aimed at encouraging larger projects while maintaining support for smaller ones. This tariff structure, although complex, is designed to adapt to market evolution and renewable energy development objectives. Tariffs are revised periodically, and it is important to refer to the current decrees to know the applicable conditions for your project. The evolution of market prices, particularly the decrease in equipment costs, has led to a progressive reduction in tariffs over the years.
Comparative Analysis of Buyback Tariffs and Electricity Purchase Prices
Gap Between Surplus Buyback Tariff and Grid Purchase Price
It has become increasingly evident that the price at which you can resell the surplus of your solar production is significantly lower than the price at which you buy electricity from the grid. Let’s take a concrete example for the last quarter of 2025: the surplus buyback tariff for an installation up to 100 kWc is €0.0617/kWh. Meanwhile, the price of electricity purchased from the grid remains much higher, often around €0.19/kWh, or even more depending on suppliers and time of day. This difference widens the economic advantage of directly consuming the electricity you produce.
The Economic Advantage of Direct Self-Consumption
Faced with this gap, direct self-consumption makes perfect sense. By consuming your own solar production, you avoid buying that same amount of electricity from the energy supplier at a higher price. This is a strategy that can significantly reduce your overall electricity bill. Self-consumption bonuses, although variable depending on the installation’s capacity, complement this approach by reducing the initial cost of the installation. For example, a 3 kWc installation can benefit from a bonus of €240.
The Role of Virtual Batteries
To optimise self-consumption, especially when your production exceeds your instantaneous consumption, storage solutions, such as virtual batteries, play an increasing role. They allow for storing surplus energy for later use, when the sun is not shining. This maximises the use of your solar production and further reduces your dependence on the grid. The estimation of grid connection costs, for example through Enedis tools, can also be a factor to consider in the overall planning of your photovoltaic project [a5fe].
The evolution of buyback tariffs, particularly the continuous decrease in the price of surplus resale, makes self-consumption with or without storage increasingly attractive. It is now a key strategy for maximising the profitability of one’s photovoltaic installation.
Simplified Tenders for Large Installations
For larger photovoltaic projects, the buyback tariff landscape has evolved. Installations with a capacity exceeding 100 kWc no longer benefit from the open-access system. They must now go through a simplified tender process. This mechanism, managed by the Energy Regulation Commission (CRE) and approved by the Ministry of Ecological Transition, aims to organise competitive bidding for these projects.
Eligibility Conditions for Tenders
Eligibility for simplified tenders depends mainly on the installation’s capacity. Projects with a peak capacity greater than 100 kWc are concerned. It is important to note that the maximum threshold for open access will be lowered. From 1 January 2026, only installations up to 200 kWc will remain eligible for the classic obligation to purchase. Larger projects will therefore have to go through these tenders. Furthermore, a carbon footprint requirement is introduced for projects over 100 kWc, with a target of less than 740 kg CO₂ eq/kWc, according to a simplified assessment methodology. This environmental constraint is expected to extend to all tenders from 2026.
Competitive Bidding Mechanisms and Ceiling Prices
Simplified tenders operate on a competitive bidding principle. Project developers submit their offers, and the most competitive projects, often those proposing the lowest buyback price, are selected. The CRE defines application periods and installation volumes to be supported. There are also ceiling prices, which serve as an upper limit for the proposed tariffs. These mechanisms aim to control the cost of public support for solar energy and encourage economically viable projects. The results of these tenders determine the buyback tariffs for the selected installations, offering visibility on potential revenues for significant projects. The results of simplified tenders for installations from 100 kWc to 500 kWc are available for consultation here.
Implications for Potential Revenues
Participation in a simplified tender has direct implications for the potential revenues of a large-capacity photovoltaic installation. The buyback tariff obtained following selection in a tender is generally fixed for the duration of the purchase contract, offering a certain financial security. However, the competitive bidding process can lead to a decrease in tariffs compared to older open-access systems. Developers must therefore carry out rigorous financial analysis to ensure the profitability of their project, taking into account installation costs, maintenance, and the obtained buyback tariff. The objective is to find a balance between competitiveness to be selected and the guarantee of a satisfactory return on investment. Projects that comply with landscape integration criteria, although this bonus is no longer available for new applications, could historically benefit from additional support, illustrating the complexity of aid schemes.
The move to simplified tenders for installations over 100 kWc marks an evolution towards greater market structuring and optimisation of public support costs. This requires more thorough preparation of applications and an adapted financial strategy for project developers.
For large solar projects, administrative procedures can be simplified. We help you navigate these procedures so that your installation goes smoothly. Discover how we can facilitate your procedures for large photovoltaic installations. Visit our website to learn more and launch your project with complete peace of mind!
Conclusion: Anticipating the Future of Photovoltaics in 2026
In summary, 2026 promises to be a period of continuous transition for the photovoltaic sector in France. Buyback tariffs, although constantly decreasing for total sale, continue to favour self-consumption, especially when coupled with storage solutions. For individuals and small businesses, it is becoming increasingly clear that maximising one’s own solar energy consumption, rather than relying on the resale of surplus at reduced tariffs, represents the most sensible strategy. Regulatory changes, particularly simplified tenders for larger installations, also highlight a desire to structure the market and encourage adapted economic models. It is therefore advisable to stay informed of quarterly adjustments and to carefully evaluate the profitability of one’s project based on one’s own needs and the current support schemes to make the best choices in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are the prices for buying back my solar electricity set?
The prices for buying back your solar electricity are decided by official texts, much like rules. The Energy Regulation Commission (CRE) reviews every three months whether these prices need to change. They look at how many solar installations there are, the price of panels, and whether France needs more green energy.
Can I still sell all my solar electricity to EDF?
For very small installations, those under 9 kilowatts-peak (kWc), it’s no longer possible to sell all the electricity produced to EDF. This is a new rule to encourage people to use their own electricity. For slightly larger installations, it’s still possible, but the price is lower than before.
What is the price for selling the electricity I don’t use?
If you use part of the electricity your panels produce and sell the rest (the surplus), the price depends on the size of your installation. For small homes (under 9 kWc), the price is 4 euro cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). For slightly larger installations, up to 100 kWc, it’s a bit more, around 6.17 euro cents per kWh.
Why have the prices for selling my solar electricity dropped so much?
Prices have dropped because manufacturing solar panels and installing them costs much less now than before. That’s good for those buying panels! Also, the government wants people to use their own solar electricity as much as possible (that’s self-consumption) rather than selling it all.
What happens to my contract if I installed solar panels 20 years ago?
Your contract with EDF to sell your electricity lasts for 20 years. When this period is over, you have choices: either you negotiate a new contract, or you decide to stop selling anything and use all your electricity for yourself, or you find another arrangement according to the new rules at the time.
Is it still worthwhile to sell my solar electricity in 2026?
It depends. For small installations, selling the remaining electricity doesn’t bring in much anymore. You need to calculate carefully if it’s worth it. Many people now prefer to use their electricity themselves and perhaps even store the surplus with batteries, because buying electricity from the grid costs more than what they buy it back for.
What is self-consumption and why is it important?
Self-consumption is when you use the electricity produced by your own solar panels to power your home. If you produce more than you need, you can sell the surplus. It has become more interesting than selling everything, especially if you can store your electricity to use it later.
Do large solar installations (over 100 kWc) have the same rules?
No, very large installations have different rules. They can no longer simply sell their electricity to EDF. They must participate in a sort of competition (tenders) where they propose a price to sell their energy. It’s a bit more complicated for them.
