Simplified building integration is attracting more and more attention from those wishing to install solar panels and benefit from a preferential electricity tariff. However, it is not always easy to navigate the technical rules, administrative steps and eligibility criteria. Between building requirements, installation power and the documents to provide, there are many points to check. This article reviews the conditions for benefiting from this tariff, keeping it simple and clear.
Main points to remember
- The preferential tariff for simplified building integration depends on specific technical criteria, in particular watertightness and product compatibility with current standards.
- Only certain building types and uses are eligible: for example, installations on new buildings or non-residential use may be excluded.
- The power of the installation influences access to the tariff and its terms, with annual production caps and modulation according to sunlight.
- The administrative procedure requires several steps: an eligibility certificate, grid connection request, and compliance obligations.
- Financial aid and tax advantages exist, but the conditions must be properly checked to benefit, particularly for businesses and public bodies.
Definitions and principles of simplified building integration
Distinction between full integration and simplified integration
The integration of solar panels into buildings comes in two main forms: full integration and simplified integration. Full integration involves making photovoltaic modules a structural element of the building. They replace part of the roof or façade, thus ensuring watertightness and protecting the structure from bad weather.
Conversely, simplified integration refers to installation that allows the solar system to contribute to the building’s covering without being a component deeply linked to the structure. The panels are often installed above the existing roof, but must still meet certain requirements to benefit from a preferential tariff. For example:
- The modules must at a minimum protect against vertical rain.
- They must not simply be placed on the ground or on supports independent of the building.
- The system must comply with a list of configurations defined by regulation and updated by the relevant authorities.
Functions handled by simplified integration
A simplified integration system is not just a decorative addition. It must fulfil essential roles in order to guarantee eligibility for the tariff. Here are the main expected functions:
- Ensure minimum protection against rainwater and other bad weather.
- Contribute to the strength or stability of the roof, without necessarily replacing the entire covering.
- Blend into the general aesthetics of the building, according to criteria specified by the CEIAB.
Beyond energy performance, compliance with technical requirements directly determines access to the preferential tariff for producers.
Role of the CEIAB in installation validation
The Committee for the Evaluation of Building Integration (CEIAB) plays a central role in recognising products and techniques compatible with simplified integration. It regularly assesses systems, materials and their installation methods. When a manufacturer wishes to market a new photovoltaic module for simplified integration, the product must be submitted to the CEIAB:
- The CEIAB analyses compliance with standards (watertightness, strength, safety).
- It publishes an updated list of approved products.
- Its opinion is decisive during inspections for granting the preferential tariff.
For a better understanding of how remuneration is organised according to installed power and the type of integration, you can consult the remuneration methods for photovoltaic installations.
Simplified integration is not just a matter of installation: it involves regulatory validation and specific technical obligations for each project.
Technical criteria for accessing the preferential tariff
Access to the preferential tariff in photovoltaics, particularly under the simplified building integration regime, is based on several specific technical requirements. These criteria are designed to guarantee the quality and durability of installations as well as their true contribution to the insulation and energy performance of the building.
Justification of the integrated system’s watertightness
Integrated photovoltaic modules must always ensure the function of protection against rain and outside air. It is not enough that the panels produce electricity; they must also replace part of the building’s envelope, fulfilling a reliable watertightness role.
- The panels must form a waterproof barrier in the relevant area.
- An appropriate mounting system is required to resist adverse weather.
- Accessories (flashings, seals, profiles, etc.) must guarantee the integrity of the whole.
Poor design could lead to leaks, compromising both the structure and eligibility for the tariff.
Product compatibility with regulatory requirements
Any product used in an installation seeking the preferential tariff must be compatible with current standards, particularly those relating to electrical safety and the mechanical stability of the structure.
- Module certification according to standards EN 61215 or EN 61730 for photovoltaics.
- Compliance with the requirements of the Committee for the Evaluation of Building Integration (CEIAB).
- Use of a qualified installer ensuring compliance with regulations.
It may be useful to consult the specifics of over-roofing of photovoltaic panels, where aesthetic and mounting requirements are added to technical standards.
Specific features of installations depending on power
Technical criteria differ depending on installed power, with a marked distinction at the 3 kWp threshold:
| Installation power | Eligibility date | Main technical conditions |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ 3 kWp | Since 01/01/2011 | Roof integration, strict watertightness |
| > 3 kWp | Since 15/01/2010 | Allowance for over-roofing, CEIAB inspection |
- For installations over 3 kWp, systems may be installed as over-roofing provided they give full protection against sun and vertical rain.
- Only the part of the installation achieving these functions is entitled to the simplified tariff, with possible adjustments according to sunlight for installations over 250 kWp.
Observing each of these criteria is essential for gaining and keeping the preferential tariff for the duration of the purchase contract.
Building use and impact on eligibility
The use of the building plays a major role in access to the preferential tariff for simplified building integration. Merely owning a photovoltaic installation is not enough: eligibility is heavily dependent on the building type, its age, and its main use. These elements are regularly specified in official circulars to exclude sites that do not match the spirit of the scheme.
Conditions related to the building’s age
To be considered, an installation must be sited on a building completed more than two years before, in most non-residential cases. Installations on new or temporary structures are often excluded from the benefit of the preferential tariff.
Here are some key points:
- The building must be closed and covered.
- The installation must replace elements ensuring the original watertightness or covering.
- The total installed power on the same site must generally not exceed 250 kWp.
Meeting the minimum building age is an essential step before any application for the simplified integrated tariff.
Permitted uses for simplified building integration
The main use of the building determines the applicable tariff. Installations on certain buildings for housing, education or healthcare are preferred. The table below summarises common uses and their eligibility:
| Main use of building | Eligible for tariff? |
|---|---|
| Residential (house, block of flats) | Yes |
| Education (schools, universities) | Yes |
| Healthcare (hospitals, clinics) | Yes |
| Leisure activities (gîtes, hotels) | No (under strict conditions) |
| Sports (stadiums, swimming pools) | No |
| Nurseries, canteens, community halls | No |
Certain activities are excluded from the scheme, notably where the use is rental for foreigners or dedicated to temporary accommodation.
Exclusions based on site activity
According to the current regulations, certain activities do not entitle to the preferential tariff, even if the installation meets the technical constraints:
- Country cottages, holiday homes, tourist facilities.
- Sports complexes, public or municipal swimming pools.
- Temporary structures, recent buildings.
- Medical practices, multipurpose halls, catering spaces.
There must therefore be extra vigilance when preparing the application to avoid later refusals. Note that the main designation of the building takes precedence over secondary uses.
In summary, before any procedure, check the official designation of the building and ensure that it appears in the list of permitted uses, as the conditions are very strict and checks are frequent.
Modulation and capping of the preferential tariff
The remuneration granted for electricity under simplified building integration is neither uniform nor unlimited. Its amount varies, both according to location and installed power. These rules guarantee fair distribution of solar parks and prevent misuse of the preferential tariff.
Annual caps on eligible production
For each photovoltaic installation, only a defined share of annual production benefits from the preferential tariff. Beyond a certain threshold (often expressed in hours of operation), the tariff drops significantly.
| Installation power | Hours cap (h/year) | Applied preferential tariff | Tariff beyond the cap |
|---|---|---|---|
| ≤ 100 kWp | 1,100 | Simplified integration feed-in tariff | Reduced tariff |
| > 100 kWp | 1,100 | Feed-in tariff | Heavily reduced tariff |
| > 250 kWp | Variable by site | Tariff modulated by sunlight | Regulatory floor tariff |
- The amount of electricity sold at the best price must not exceed a set cap, generally around 1,100 to 1,500 hours per year depending on power and commissioning date.
- Any production above the cap will be purchased at a much lower, often symbolic, rate.
- This capping is intended to direct investment where sunlight really enhances solar performance, as highlighted in the Energy Regulation.
Modulation by sunlight and installed power
The preferential tariff is not set uniformly throughout the country. It varies, particularly for installations of more than 250 kWp, based on:
- The level of sunlight at the installation location.
- The size of the photovoltaic generator.
- The nature of the installation (building, ground, over-roof).
This allows for an approach suited to the diversity of French regions. Projects located in the sunniest areas see their tariff adjusted downwards, to encourage a more even deployment.
This principle of modulation answers the search for territorial balance in the development of photovoltaics in France.
Annual depreciation of the feed-in tariff
The purchase price guaranteed over 20 years, set by the feed-in contract, is no longer the same from year to year for new connections. Each year, the amount decreases, to accompany the reduction in installation costs:
- The decrease is applied semi-annually or annually.
- Consumers who start their project benefit from the rate in force at the date of their complete file.
- This trend encourages rapid processing, as a delayed project could lose profitability. More details on contract stability can be found in the section on 20-year tariff guarantees.
Depreciation follows market price trends, while still maintaining an economic incentive for each new investor.
Administrative procedure for obtaining simplified integration
To benefit from the simplified building integration regime, several administrative steps must be taken. Understanding this procedure ensures the benefit of the preferential tariff linked to a photovoltaic installation. Here’s how the process is organised:
Processing of the certificate entitling to the feed-in obligation
Getting the certificate entitling to the feed-in obligation usually begins with the grid operator. This document certifies that the installation meets the simplified integration criteria, both technically and administratively.
- Submission of the complete file to the grid operator (e.g. Enedis or local company).
- Analysis of technical documents (layout, wiring diagram, proof of watertightness).
- Notification of acceptance or request for modification from the grid operator.
The file must be submitted promptly after installation, to avoid delays in connection or loss of the advantageous tariff.
Grid connection request and the role of network operators
The grid connection application is made alongside the submission of the feed-in obligation file. Operators such as Enedis play a central role: they are the single point of contact for all steps related to grid connection. For some projects, a fast connection procedure may apply and facilitate network access.
Main steps in this stage include:
- Complete the application form and gather required technical documents.
- Wait for the technical study, then receive the connection proposal.
- Accept the quote and set a date for the work.
Timeframes may vary depending on the size of the installation and the region.
Documents to provide and compliance declaration
An administrative file must be completed accurately. It generally includes:
- Signed contract with installer and RGE certificate
- Proof of equipment compliance (CE, PV)
- Completion declaration and compliance sent to the administration
A summary table:
| Document | Required for integration? |
|---|---|
| Installer contract | Yes |
| Compliance certification | Yes |
| Plans / technical diagrams | Yes |
| Insurance certificate | Sometimes |
Don’t forget that from 1 October 2025, reduced VAT may apply to panel installation if the power is under 9 kWp (reduced VAT information).
Incomplete or inaccurate documentation can delay tariff eligibility. It is recommended to check each item before submitting to the authorities.
Specifics of photovoltaic installations as over-roofing
Over-roof photovoltaic installation is attracting more homeowners, especially for the ease of installation and flexibility in renovations. This method allows the panels to be installed directly on the existing roof, offering an alternative to full integration into the covering. It is essential to fully understand the regulatory framework, advantages, and limits of this installation method to benefit from the preferential feed-in tariff.
Regulatory definition of over-roofing
Over-roofing, also called simplified building integration (ISB), means the solar panels are placed above the existing covering without replacing it. Their mounting is done on the frame or roof structure, but the underlying roof (tiles, slates) remains. This method preserves the original roof’s watertightness and limits building work.
- The panels are placed on the existing roof
- Little or no change to the original building
- Quick and minimally invasive work
A crucial point for protected zones: the use of materials and colours suited to the environment, especially to comply with the requirements of the ABF or other local authorities. For more information on aesthetic integration in sensitive zones, follow recommendations on integrating your solar installation in protected areas.
Access conditions for the simplified integrated tariff for over-roofing
For existing roof installations to qualify for the preferential tariff, certain rules apply:
- The system must be mounted in a stable and durable way without compromising the building’s watertightness.
- The generator must cover a minimum surface area (often at least 70% of the slope of the roof)
- The panels must not compromise the building’s primary use
A simple over-imposed assembly — by clamping or rails — meets these criteria if it does not alter the state of the roof or its primary protection function.
Exceptions for power above 3 kWp
Once installation power exceeds 3 kWp, the regulations become stricter.
| System power | Applicable conditions |
|---|---|
| ≤ 3 kWp | Eligible for simplified integration |
| > 3 kWp | May require technical study, even full integration or additional procedures |
- A more complete file must be submitted
- Compliance with current standards must be verified
- Caps on aid or preferential tariff may be adjusted
In all cases, it is advisable to anticipate your needs and consult a professional to avoid surprises when applying for aid or grid connection.
Self-consumption and sale of surplus under the simplified regime
Photovoltaic self-consumption with the option to sell surplus has become an attractive option for many households and small businesses. This scheme encourages on-site use of solar energy, with resale limited to the surplus only, subject to specific regulations.
Purchase contract with feed-in obligation (OA)
The feed-in tariff (OA) contract is the most common way to sell unused solar power. This contract, usually with EDF OA, guarantees purchase of unused electricity at a set rate for 20 years from signature. Installation must be compliant and certified by Consuel, then connected to the public grid to be eligible. Other suppliers exist for professionals, but OA is most common for individuals.
- Typical duration: 20 years, non-renewable
- Rate set at the time of signature and reviewed quarterly
- The installation must be certified and compliant
Technical solutions for surplus management, such as smart boxes, can also optimise self-consumption.
Remuneration for unused electricity
Surplus is sold at a regulated tariff, set quarterly by the Energy Regulation Commission. While this price is lower than that for total sales, it allows you to monetise the excess generated during production peaks.
| Installation power (kWp) | Surplus tariff (€/kWh) |
|---|---|
| ≤ 3 | 0.1269 |
| ≤ 9 | 0.1269 |
This tariff applies only if the installation is integrated into the building under IAB or ISB schemes, excluding ground installations. The amount paid therefore depends on the power and precise quantity injected into the grid each year.
Duration and conditions of the purchase contract
The OA contract lasts 20 years, with terms that change notably for higher-powered installations.
- Contract formalised after certification and grid connection.
- Tariff fixed at signing date but reviewed for new installations.
- A self-consumption bonus may be available in addition, provided the installed power limits are respected.
To fully benefit from surplus enhancement, make sure to choose a qualified installer, check your installation’s compliance, and carefully study the grid connection and purchase contract.
Tax treatment is also incentive-based for this type of project: the reduced VAT rate of 5.5% applies to self-consumption under certain conditions.
This arrangement is increasingly competitive due to falling installation costs and the steady rise of the grid electricity price, allowing for a potentially faster return on investment.
Financial aid and tax incentives available
The Energy Transition Tax Credit (CITE) has long represented a real boost for households investing in photovoltaics. To benefit, the equipment must be installed in the main residence by a recognised professional (RGE), and the expenditure must be invoiced including VAT. It covers both the purchase and installation, and can significantly reduce your tax bill. This is a direct reduction in your tax obligations, which can make a big difference in a residential solar project.
Main conditions:
- Installation carried out by a certified RGE company
- Expenses incurred on the main residence
- Equipment in line with required standards
Few people take the time to check each condition, but everything depends on choosing a qualified supplier and keeping all proof of purchase and installation.
Installations with simplified building integration can benefit from 5.5% VAT, provided they meet energy performance and power requirements. This rate applies not only to equipment purchase, but also to labour. Reduced VAT is often combined with other forms of support, such as grants from some local authorities.
Examples of local grants:
| Region | Type of aid | Amount/transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Occitanie | Solar installation bonus | Up to €2,000 |
| Île-de-France | Regional support | Variable depending on project |
| Grand Est | Renovation grant | Up to 10% of cost |
Some schemes remain available until the end of 2025, notably for dwellings rated E, F or G, according to this information.
Installing solar panels can also give entitlement to property tax exemptions, especially when decided locally. Several councils offer to waive the tax charge to encourage energy transition.
- Partial or total property tax exemption for five years, sometimes more
- Some self-consumption projects avoid tax on resale if the power does not exceed 3 kWp
- Specific deductions for depreciation in the case of businesses
For those selling surplus or opting for the feed-in obligation, the legal framework imposed by the tariff order of 6 October 2021 ensures a clear framework (see the tariff order).
Exploring eligibility for these exemptions can make a genuine difference to the profitability of a solar installation, especially in areas where the initial investment is high.
Implications for businesses and public bodies
The transition to solar energy is increasingly attractive to businesses and public bodies. Investing in a simplified integrated photovoltaic installation is not only an environmental action, but also a financial one. The procedures for administrative registration, tax management, and access to specific aids are fundamental to capitalising on this investment.
Registration of the installation with the authorities
Any business wishing to sell the electricity produced must register its installation with network operators such as Enedis. Without this, billing for injected energy and receiving the purchase tariff are impossible.
- Prepare the registration file (connection application, proof of compliance, proof of ownership).
- Use a professional experienced in administrative procedures to avoid delays or errors.
- Track feedback and approval of the file by the authorities.
Special attention to administrative compliance from the outset ensures smooth commissioning and rapid access to the preferential tariff. See further details on coordinating declarations in this official information brochure.
Specific features of simplified integration for businesses
Businesses are not subject to the same requirements as individuals regarding the use or designation of the building. While some activities are excluded from the preferential tariff, most commercial, logistics or administrative buildings can benefit from simplified building integration.
Key points:
- Building eligibility depends on main activity (excluding gîtes, sports structures and some specific uses).
- Ability to integrate solar energy into the company’s sustainability strategy.
- Access to shared investment (e.g. collective self-consumption or group purchasing), though such arrangements remain rare and are subject to changing rules. For those considering installation on a listed building, certain special formalities apply as described in this guide to solar panels on protected buildings.
Aid and tax reductions for professionals
A range of aid and tax measures make investment attractive:
| Tax advantage | Brief description |
|---|---|
| Tax depreciation | Spread the investment cost over several years to reduce taxable profits |
| Reduced VAT | Potential application to the sale of produced electricity |
| Grants (local/national) | Depending on region or sector |
To be eligible for these measures, one must:
- Have the installation carried out by a certified professional (RGE or equivalent)
- Correctly declare the installation with the tax authorities
- Provide proof of purchase and installation when making the declaration
If you wish to optimise the fiscal management of your installations, follow the appropriate recommendations and procedures to achieve optimal profitability. Some critics, such as mentioned in this article on the impact of claims and premiums, also remind us of the importance of keeping up with changes in the rules.
Maintenance and monitoring of installations integrated into buildings
Maintaining a photovoltaic installation integrated into a building goes well beyond simple commissioning. To maintain entitlement to the preferential tariff, regular maintenance and structured monitoring are essential.
Maintenance obligations to keep the preferential tariff
The regulations impose a number of actions so that the installation continues to benefit from the higher purchase tariff:
- Regular checking of the cleanliness and integrity of photovoltaic modules.
- Inspection of system watertightness, crucial for protecting the building.
- Preventive maintenance of mounting elements and electrical connections.
A poorly maintained installation, which no longer fulfils its closed and covered function, may lose its entitlement to the preferential tariff for simplified integration. It is therefore advisable to rely on companies with certification such as the QualiPV 500 label to secure annual monitoring.
Frequency of checks and interventions to plan
The frequency of checks depends on the size and nature of the installation, but a minimum schedule is generally recommended:
| Type of check | Minimum recommendation |
|---|---|
| Visual inspection | Every 6 to 12 months |
| Full technical maintenance | Every 1 to 2 years |
| Watertightness inspection | After each major weather event |
Preventive interventions often avoid damage, loss of energy yield, and disputes with the grid operator.
If the owner anticipates checks and schedules regular interventions, the risk of faults or lost income is reduced.
Owner responsibility in case of faults
The building owner is fully responsible for the proper functioning of their integrated installation. This responsibility involves:
- Keeping all maintenance evidence (reports, invoices, compliance certificates).
- Acting quickly in case of faults to limit production losses.
- Supplying justification to the authorities or grid operator if requested for ongoing tariff eligibility.
If a fault occurs, failure to respond quickly may lead to temporary suspension of the preferential tariff. Using qualified professionals helps reduce this risk and gives better profitability over the lifespan of the installation, as described in the approach for maintaining encapsulated buildings.
Looking after your integrated building installations is vital for good performance all year. Regular maintenance avoids breakdowns and extends the lifespan of your equipment. Need help or advice? Visit our website to see how we can support you.
Conclusion
To sum up, simplified building integration opens the door to a preferential tariff for the electricity produced, but simply installing a few panels on a roof is not enough to benefit. Precise criteria must be met, whether regarding the installation’s power, the building’s nature, or the administrative steps to be followed. The rules change regularly, and it is important to get up-to-date information before starting out. The financial benefits are real, but they depend on the project’s compliance with current regulations. In case of doubt, it is better to consult a qualified professional who can guide every stage, from design to declaration with the authorities. This helps avoid unpleasant surprises and get the best from your solar investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is simplified building integration?
Simplified building integration means that solar panels are installed on a building, but without replacing important sections such as the roof. They are installed above or in addition to the existing roof, while providing protection from the rain and sun.
Who can benefit from the preferential tariff for simplified integration?
The preferential tariff is reserved for solar installations on residential, educational or healthcare buildings. Some buildings, such as swimming pools, sports halls, or nurseries, are not eligible.
What is the maximum power for the simplified tariff?
To benefit from the simplified tariff, the installation’s power must not exceed 250 kWp on the same site. Above this, the tariff is less advantageous and also depends on the location’s sunlight.
Are there specific documents needed to apply for the preferential tariff?
Yes, you must provide a feed-in obligation certificate, evidence of installation compliance, and documents proving compliance with standards. These must be sent to the grid operator.
How is the purchase tariff for electricity produced calculated?
The tariff depends on the installation date, panel power, and type of integration. It may change each year and decreases slightly every year to encourage quick installation.
Can you self-consume electricity and sell the surplus?
Yes, it is possible to use the electricity produced for your own consumption and sell the surplus to the grid. This sale is arranged through a feed-in obligation contract that lasts for 20 years.
What financial aid exists for simplified building integration?
You may benefit from a tax credit, reduced VAT of 5.5%, and sometimes local grants. Some tax exemptions are also possible depending on the region and type of installation.
Who should maintain the panels in order to keep the preferential tariff?
The building owner must have the solar panels maintained regularly. Good maintenance and frequent inspections are necessary to avoid loss of entitlement to the preferential tariff.
