The year 2026 is fast approaching, and with it, new arrangements for those who wish to produce their own electricity from the sun. The self-consumption bonus, a key scheme to encourage the installation of solar panels, continues to evolve. This article provides an overview of what awaits you, including the conditions for benefiting and the amount you could receive. It’s an interesting incentive to reduce your electricity bill and participate in the energy transition.
Key takeaways
- The self-consumption bonus in 2026 aims to support the installation of solar panels for personal consumption of the electricity produced.
- The amount of the bonus will depend on the power of your photovoltaic installation and will be degressive according to it.
- The date of completion of your connection application will determine the amount of the bonus, as tariffs are revised quarterly.
- For installations where the connection application was made after 1 November 2022, the bonus is generally paid in a single instalment.
- This bonus specifically concerns self-consumption with the sale of surplus unused electricity, not the total sale of production.
Understanding the self-consumption bonus in 2026
The self-consumption bonus represents significant financial aid to encourage the adoption of solar energy by individuals and businesses. Its main objective is to reduce the initial cost of photovoltaic installations, thus making solar electricity production more accessible. In 2026, this scheme continues to evolve to adapt to market dynamics and energy transition objectives.
Definition of the self-consumption bonus
This is aid paid by the State, generally via EDF OA (Obligation d’Achat), to owners of solar installations who choose to consume part of the electricity they produce. This bonus is specifically designed for installations practising self-consumption with the sale of surplus, meaning that electricity not consumed on-site is resold to the grid. It aims to offset part of the initial investment required to purchase and install solar panels.
Objectives of the scheme
The self-consumption bonus scheme pursues several essential goals:
- Accelerate the deployment of renewable energies: By making investment more affordable, the aid encourages more households and businesses to produce their own green electricity.
- Promote energy independence: Self-consumption reduces dependence on traditional energy suppliers and allows for better control of energy expenses.
- Contribute to the ecological transition: By increasing the share of solar energy in the energy mix, greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact are reduced.
- Support the local market: The development of self-consumption stimulates the activity of installers and manufacturers of photovoltaic equipment.
Evolution of support for self-consumption
The landscape of aid for self-consumption has undergone several adjustments over the years. Initially, schemes such as tax credits were in place. Gradually, support has refocused on the investment bonus, which has become the flagship measure. The amounts of this bonus are adjusted periodically, often quarterly, to take into account market developments and equipment costs. The aim is to maintain a relevant level of aid without creating market distortions. It is important to note that public support tends to decrease as the sector matures, thus encouraging increased profitability through on-site consumption optimisation and the integration of storage solutions. The calculation of the self-consumption rate is a key indicator of the performance of these installations [c043].
The evolution of aid reflects a desire to move from massive support to a more targeted approach, favouring the efficiency and energy autonomy of users.
Amount of the self-consumption bonus for 2026
The amount of the self-consumption bonus is a key element in assessing the profitability of a photovoltaic installation. It is calculated based on several factors, including the power of your system and the date on which your connection application is considered complete. It is important to note that tariffs are revised quarterly by the Energy Regulation Commission (CRE).
Quarterly bonus schedule
The bonus amounts are degressive. This means that the higher the power of your installation, the lower the tariff per kilowatt-peak (kWp). Here is an overview of the tariffs that will be in effect for the last quarter of 2025, valid until 1 January 2026:
| Installation power | Investment bonus (€/Wp) |
|---|---|
| ≤ 3 kWp | 0.08 |
| ≤ 9 kWp | 0.08 |
| ≤ 36 kWp | 0.16 |
| ≤ 100 kWp | 0.08 |
| ≤ 500 kWp | 0.00 |
These amounts are set at the time your connection file is approved. Once this step is completed, the amount of your bonus is guaranteed and will not be affected by future quarterly changes.
Impact of installation power
The power of your installation is the main determinant of the total bonus amount. For example, a 3 kWp installation will receive a bonus calculated on the basis of €0.08/Wp, or €240 in total. For a 9 kWp installation, the calculation remains the same per kWp, but the total amount will be €720. However, for larger installations, such as those exceeding 36 kWp, the tariff per kWp may vary, and it is essential to check the applicable schedule for your situation. It is often more sensible to optimise on-site consumption rather than aiming for excessive power that would be less well compensated by the bonus.
Calculation of financial aid
The calculation is quite simple once you know the power of your installation and the applicable tariff for the quarter of your complete connection application. Simply multiply the power of your installation in kWp by the tariff in euros per kWp corresponding to your power band. For example, for a 6 kWp installation whose connection application is approved between 1 October and 31 December 2025, the bonus will be 6 kWp * €80/kWp = €480.
It is important to understand that the self-consumption bonus is an investment aid. It aims to reduce the initial cost of your photovoltaic installation. The amount paid depends directly on the production capacity of your solar panels. Once your connection file is finalised, the amount of your bonus is fixed, offering you clear visibility on this financial support.
For any connection application made after 1 November 2022, the entire bonus is paid in a single instalment upon the first invoice. This simplifies procedures and accelerates the return on investment. For older installations, payment could be spread over several years. It is advisable to obtain detailed information on the payment terms specific to your situation, which depend on the date of your connection application. Do not forget that connection to the electricity grid is a technical step that requires a preliminary study, especially if your installation is of high power. Consulting the connection conditions can help you anticipate these aspects.
Eligibility conditions for the bonus
Installation power criteria
To be eligible for the self-consumption bonus, your photovoltaic installation must meet certain power thresholds. These thresholds are set by the Energy Regulation Commission (CRE) and may vary. Generally, the bonus applies to installations with a power of 100 kWp or less. Larger installations, beyond this threshold, generally do not benefit from this specific aid scheme. It is therefore important to correctly size your project to meet the current criteria.
Role of the connection date
The date on which your installation is connected to the electricity grid plays a decisive role in calculating the bonus amount. Bonus tariffs and amounts are revised quarterly by the CRE. Consequently, an installation connected at the beginning of a quarter may benefit from a different amount than one connected at the end of the same quarter. It is therefore advisable to finalise your connection application sufficiently early to benefit from the most advantageous conditions. Once your connection application is complete and accepted, the amount of your bonus is generally secured and will no longer be affected by quarterly changes.
Self-consumption with surplus sale
The self-consumption bonus scheme is designed to encourage the production and consumption of solar electricity on-site. It is fully compatible with the sale of surplus electricity that you do not consume. If your installation produces more energy than you use, this excess can be resold to the grid. The conditions for this sale, particularly the purchase tariffs, are also defined by the CRE and are subject to a specific price list. This combination allows you to maximise the benefits of your photovoltaic installation, by reducing your electricity bills while generating additional income. Subsidies for charging stations, for example, are intended for municipalities and indigenous communities connected to Hydro-Québec, requiring site ownership and a complete application [a4c0].
Payment terms for the bonus
Once your solar installation is operational and connected to the grid, the self-consumption bonus arrives. The payment terms have evolved to simplify procedures and accelerate the return on investment.
Single payment for small installations
For installations where the connection application was submitted after 1 November 2022, a major simplification has occurred. The entire bonus is paid in a single instalment, upon the first invoice following the commissioning of your system. This measure applies to all installation powers, from the smallest to the largest, making the process more direct.
Installments for larger installations
Before 1 November 2022, the payment terms were different. For installations connected before this date, the bonus was paid in instalments over a period of five years. The pace of this payment depended on the power of the installation:
- Installations up to 36 kWp: The bonus was paid annually in five equal parts.
- Installations between 36 kWp and 100 kWp: Payment was semi-annual, still spread over five years.
These old terms no longer apply to new connection applications.
Time between commissioning and first payment
The time between the actual commissioning date of your photovoltaic installation and the receipt of the first bonus payment depends on the date of your connection application. For applications made after 1 November 2022, the single payment occurs upon the first invoice. This invoice is generally issued shortly after the confirmation of commissioning by the grid operator. It is therefore advisable to closely monitor the status of your connection file to anticipate this payment. For older installations, the first payment occurred within months of the purchase agreement taking effect, according to the instalment terms mentioned above. The completeness of the connection file is a key step to trigger these payments. You can consult details on the connection process to ensure all steps are followed correctly.
It is important to note that the amount of the bonus is set on the date of completion of the connection application. Quarterly tariff changes therefore do not affect the amount of aid once your file has been approved.
Electricity surplus sale tariffs
When your solar installation produces more electricity than you consume at a given moment, this surplus can be fed back into the public grid. EDF OA (Obligation d’Achat) or a Local Distribution Company (ELD) buys this energy at a defined tariff. It is important to note that this tariff is distinct from the self-consumption bonus. The main objective of self-consumption is to consume your own production, and the sale of surplus is a valuation of unused energy.
Current price list
Surplus purchase tariffs are set by decree and are updated quarterly. They depend on the power of your installation. Here are the tariffs applicable for the period from 1 October 2025 to 31 December 2025:
| Installation power | Surplus purchase tariff (c€/kWh excluding VAT) |
|---|---|
| 0 to 9 kWp | 4.00 |
| 9 to 36 kWp | 6.17 |
| 36 to 100 kWp | 6.17 |
These tariffs are established within the framework of an Obligation to Purchase contract, guaranteeing the sale of your surplus at a price set by the public authorities for a period of 20 years. It is interesting to compare these tariffs with the price of electricity purchase, which is much higher. For example, in 2025, the surplus resale tariff for installations up to 9 kWp has fallen to €0.04/kWh. This means that 1,000 kWh resold only brings in €40, whereas consuming them yourself saves about €200 (based on a price of €0.20/kWh). For more details on tariffs, you can consult the information on the photovoltaic purchase tariff.
Tariff indexing
Surplus sale tariffs for installations over 9 kWp are subject to quarterly degressivity. This degressivity is applied based on the volume of complete connection applications (DCR) registered in the previous quarter. Furthermore, tariffs are indexed annually by a coefficient L for the entire 20-year contract period, for installations whose complete connection application was made after 1 November 2022. Tariffs for installations of 9 kWp or less are not indexed from one quarter to another. Once your purchase tariff is secured, it is no longer affected by quarterly changes.
Remuneration cap
For installations with a power of 3 kWp or less, a remuneration cap applies. This cap corresponds to the product of the installed power by a duration of 1,600 hours per year. Beyond this cap, injected electricity is remunerated at a reduced tariff of 4 c€/kWh excluding VAT. This floor price is not subject to indexing. It is therefore important to correctly size your installation to maximise self-consumption and limit the amount of surplus sold at this less advantageous tariff. The current tariffs are updated quarterly, reflecting market developments and support policies.
Other financial aid for photovoltaics
Reduced VAT rate
The VAT rate applicable to photovoltaic installations has undergone adjustments. Currently, for self-consumption installations with a power of 9 kWp or less, a reduced VAT rate of 5.5% is possible. However, this measure is subject to strict conditions. The dwelling must be more than two years old, and the installation must be carried out by an RGE certified professional. For systems over 3 kWp, the integration of an energy management system or a storage device becomes a requirement. Furthermore, the panels themselves must meet specific standards regarding their carbon footprint or heavy metal content, in accordance with PPE2 V2 marking. These conditions aim to ensure the quality and performance of installations benefiting from this reduced rate.
Local and ADEME aid
Although national schemes form the basis of support, it is always worthwhile to inquire about local aid. Regions, departments, and municipalities may, from time to time, offer additional subsidies. However, this aid has become rarer for individuals and often concerns specific projects, such as collective self-consumption or territorial initiatives. ADEME (Agency for Ecological Transition) can also be a source of information for local schemes or specific programmes. It is advisable to contact the local authorities in your place of residence directly to find out about available opportunities, as they vary considerably from one territory to another. This local aid, where it exists, can complement national schemes to further reduce the cost of your project.
Schemes not applicable to photovoltaics
It is important to clarify certain confusions regarding available aid. Unlike other energy efficiency renovation works, photovoltaic panels for electricity production are not eligible for MaPrimeRénov’. This aid is reserved for equipment such as heat pumps or solar thermal water heaters. Similarly, the tax credit for installing solar panels has been abolished for several years. Relying on outdated or incorrect information can lead to poor decisions. For a solar project, focus on the self-consumption bonus, reduced VAT, and surplus purchase tariff, which are the current national financial levers. It is always wise to check information on aid for solar panels from official sources to avoid disappointment.
It is essential to clearly distinguish between aid applicable to photovoltaics and that intended for other renewable energies. Accurate information allows for budget optimisation and maximisation of the profitability of a solar installation.
Steps to benefit from the bonus
Obtaining the self-consumption bonus in 2026 is a process that, while designed to be simple, requires careful attention to administrative details. The goal is to facilitate access to this aid to encourage the development of solar energy among individuals and professionals. Here are the key steps and points not to overlook.
Connection application procedure
The first concrete step to benefit from the bonus is to submit an application to connect your photovoltaic installation to the public grid. It is this procedure, with the grid operator (such as Enedis), that officially registers your project with the competent authorities. Once your connection file is deemed complete, the amount of your bonus is calculated and fixed. It will no longer be affected by any quarterly changes in tariffs. It is therefore important to prepare this file carefully to avoid any delays or complications.
Automatic bonus calculation
Once your connection application is approved, the bonus is calculated automatically. You generally do not need to take any further action to request payment of this aid. The amount is determined based on the power of your installation and the date of completion of your connection file. This automation aims to simplify the process for beneficiaries. For an estimate of the amount, you can consult the quarterly schedules published by the Energy Regulation Commission (CRE), which are updated regularly.
Importance of file completeness
The key to securing your bonus and its amount lies in the completeness of your connection file. An incomplete file can lead to delays, or even a reassessment of the bonus amount if tariffs change in the meantime. Make sure to provide all required documents and respond precisely to the grid operator’s requests. The date of completion of this file is the decisive factor for calculating your bonus. Do not hesitate to seek assistance from a professional to ensure all documents are in order. Photovoltaics is an investment, and this bonus is there to help you make it profitable faster. You can find information on administrative procedures on the photovoltaique.info website.
Here are the essential points to remember for the procedure:
- Submit a complete connection application to the grid operator.
- The bonus amount is calculated from the date of completion of your file.
- Once the file is complete, the bonus amount is guaranteed, regardless of future changes.
- The bonus is paid by the obligated buyer (often EDF OA) after your installation is commissioned.
It is strongly recommended to carefully check each item in your file before submitting it. A small error or omission can have consequences on the amount of aid you receive, or on the payment deadline.
Impact of power on the bonus amount
Degressivity of aid by power band
It is important to understand that the self-consumption bonus amount is not fixed. It is directly linked to the power of your photovoltaic installation, expressed in kilowatt-peak (kWp). As a general rule, the higher the power of your installation, the lower the bonus amount per unit of power (e.g., per kWp) becomes. This degressive mechanism aims to encourage smaller installations while supporting larger projects, but with adjusted aid intensity.
Optimisation of self-consumption
This bonus structure encourages reflection on optimising your electricity consumption. If you are considering a high-power installation, it becomes even more relevant to maximise self-consumption. This means directly consuming the electricity produced by your solar panels at the moment it is generated, rather than systematically feeding it back into the grid. Solutions such as battery storage or intelligent management of your electrical appliances can play a key role. The objective is to make the most of your investment, taking into account the structure of the available financial aid. Consider consulting financing for businesses for tailored perspectives.
Comparison of amounts per kWp
To illustrate this degressivity concretely, here is an overview of the bonus amounts per power band. It is essential to note that these figures are indicative and may vary depending on the quarter and regulatory changes. The date of completion of your connection application is the determining factor for fixing the amount of your bonus.
| Installation power | Bonus amount (€/kWp) |
|---|---|
| ≤ 3 kWp | €80/kWp |
| ≤ 9 kWp | €80/kWp |
| ≤ 36 kWp | €160/kWp |
| ≤ 100 kWp | €80/kWp |
| ≤ 500 kWp | €0/kWp |
These amounts are based on the Q4 2025 tariff (valid until 01/01/2026) and are subject to quarterly revision. For a 9 kWp installation, for example, the bonus would be 9 kWp * €80/kWp = €720. For a 36 kWp installation, the calculation would be different due to the higher band: (9 kWp * €80/kWp) + (27 kWp * €160/kWp) = €720 + €4320 = €5040.
Historical evolution of self-consumption bonuses
Comparison with previous years
Support for photovoltaic self-consumption has undergone several adjustments over the years. Initially, schemes aimed to encourage the emergence of this practice. Bonus amounts were higher, reflecting a desire to significantly reduce the initial investment for individuals and businesses. For example, in 2022, bonuses for small-power installations (up to 3 kWp) could reach €0.38/Wp, a figure that has gradually decreased.
Refocusing of aid on self-consumption
With the growing maturity of the solar market, public aid has been reoriented. The objective is no longer just to subsidise installation, but to specifically support the self-consumption model with surplus sale. This translates into a bonus calculated based on installed power, but with rates that decrease as power increases. This approach aims to make the scheme more targeted and encourage more local and responsible energy production. The self-consumption bonus has become the main financial lever for this type of project, replacing other schemes such as the tax credit which has been abolished.
Future trends in support schemes
Observed trends show a continuous degressivity of bonuses. The amounts paid in 2025 and early 2026 are significantly lower than those of previous years. For example, the bonus for installations up to 9 kWp dropped from €0.28/Wp in early 2024 to €0.16/Wp for the first quarter of 2025, and then to €0.08/Wp for the end of 2025. This evolution is part of a logic of progressive reduction of public subsidies as technology becomes more affordable and the market develops. It is likely that future aid will focus more on specific aspects, such as innovation or grid integration, rather than direct support for initial investment. Surplus electricity sale tariffs, on the other hand, are also subject to regular adjustments, influenced by the market and regulation, as shown by the price list which saw prices around 13.39 c€/kWh for installations up to 9 kWp at the end of 2023 [61d3].
Here is an overview of the evolution of bonuses for installations up to 9 kWp:
| Period | Bonus (€/Wp) |
|---|---|
| 01/11/2022 – 31/01/23 | 0.36 |
| 01/08/2023 – 31/10/23 | 0.33 |
| 01/11/2023 – 31/01/24 | 0.28 |
| 01/02/2024 – 30/04/24 | 0.26 |
| 01/02/2025 – 27/03/25 | 0.14 |
| 01/04/2025 – 30/06/25 | 0.08 |
| 01/10/2025 – 31/12/25 | 0.08 |
Specific cases and exclusions
Although the self-consumption bonus aims to encourage the production and consumption of solar energy, certain situations do not fall within the scope of the scheme. It is important to be aware of them to avoid any confusion.
Installations with total production sale
The self-consumption bonus scheme is specifically designed for installations that consume part of the electricity they produce. Therefore, installations where the entire production is sold to a single buyer, without any on-site consumption, are not eligible for this bonus. However, they may benefit from other support schemes, such as purchase tariffs for total sale.
Collective self-consumption
Collective self-consumption, where several consumers join forces to consume electricity produced by one or more installations, presents a special case. If the installation is part of a collective self-consumption operation, the eligibility rules and bonus calculation may be adapted. It is necessary to refer to the specific provisions provided for these schemes, which may differ from individual self-consumption. The conditions of application may vary.
Installations outside mainland France
Overseas territories (Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Réunion, Mayotte, etc.) as well as Corsica and the islands of the Ponant benefit from specific schemes for renewable energy support. The eligibility conditions and bonus amounts for self-consumption may differ in these areas due to their geographical and energy specificities. It is advisable to consult the specific tariff decrees for each territory to know the exact conditions. For example, Non-Interconnected Zones (ZNI) have dedicated schemes.
It is essential to carefully check the nature of your project and your geographical location before submitting an application. Exclusions aim to focus support on the most direct forms of self-consumption that are most relevant to the energy transition.
Certain situations do not fall within the scope of our usual offers, and we have cases where we cannot intervene. For example, if your project is very specific or if there are specific rules to follow, this may be an exclusion. To find out if your situation is concerned, it is best to talk to us directly. Visit our website to discover how we can help you.
Summary for 2026
So, we’ve come to the end of our overview of the self-consumption bonus for 2026. As we’ve seen, things are evolving, and you need to keep track of dates and conditions. The amount of the bonus will depend on the power of your installation and the date you submit your connection application. It’s a bit of a puzzle, but the general idea is that the smaller your installation, the more attractive the price per watt-peak, but the total amount will obviously be lower. You also need to keep in mind that this aid is there to encourage self-consumption, so if you plan to sell all your production, it’s a different system. Remember to check the details on official websites, as the figures change regularly. And above all, watch out for scams, that’s the most important thing.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 2026 Self-Consumption Bonus
What is the self-consumption bonus in 2026?
The self-consumption bonus is financial aid provided by the state. It encourages people to produce their own electricity with solar panels. Part of this electricity is consumed directly, and the surplus is sold. This bonus helps reduce the installation cost.
What is the amount of the bonus in 2026?
The amount of the bonus depends on the power of your solar installation, measured in kilowatt-peak (kWp). For example, for a 3 kWp installation, the bonus is around €80 per kWp. The higher the power, the more the tariff per kWp can change, and it also decreases over time.
How is the bonus calculated?
The bonus is calculated by multiplying the power of your installation (in kWp) by a tariff set by the Energy Regulation Commission (CRE). This tariff changes every quarter, and it’s important to know that the date of your connection application determines the tariff that applies to your project.
What are the conditions for receiving this bonus?
To be eligible, your installation must be intended for self-consumption with surplus sale. It must be installed by a qualified professional. The date of your connection application is also very important for setting the bonus amount.
When is the bonus paid?
For new installations where the connection application is made after 1 November 2022, the bonus is paid in a single instalment, upon the first invoice after commissioning. Before this date, payment was spread over 5 years.
What happens if I sell all my electricity production?
If you choose to sell all your electricity production to a buyer, you cannot benefit from the self-consumption bonus. This bonus is specifically designed to encourage the consumption of your own solar energy.
Are there other aids for installing solar panels?
Yes, in addition to the self-consumption bonus, you may sometimes benefit from a reduced VAT rate (5.5% under certain conditions) for installation. Other local or ADEME aids may exist, but you need to check their availability and criteria.
How do I apply for this bonus?
Normally, you do not need to make a specific application for the bonus. It is calculated automatically when you submit your connection application to the grid operator (like Enedis). The important thing is that your file is complete.
