With solarisation becoming mandatory for many buildings, it’s time to take it seriously. It’s no longer just a matter of ecology, but a genuine regulatory process that closely affects the building sector. Let’s look together at what this concretely implies for new builds, renovations, and even car parks.

Key Points to Remember about Solarisation

• Solarisation, which mandates the installation of solar panels or green roofs, is governed by several key laws, including the 2023 APER law.
• The buildings concerned are mainly new builds and major renovations, particularly tertiary, industrial, and commercial buildings over 500 m².
• Car parks over 500 m² are also subject to photovoltaic canopy obligations, with minimum coverage rates that gradually increase.
• The main objectives of solarisation are the reduction of CO2 emissions, the acceleration of the energy transition, and the contribution to national carbon neutrality.
• Exemptions are possible under certain conditions (technical, architectural constraints, excessive costs, protected areas), but non-compliance with obligations can lead to financial and administrative penalties.

Understanding the Regulatory Framework for Solarisation

The regulatory framework surrounding building solarisation has significantly intensified in recent years. It is no longer a mere option, but a legal obligation for many property owners and managers. Three major legislative texts structure this evolution, aiming to accelerate the integration of renewable energies into the French built environment. These laws impose increasing requirements, transforming the construction and renovation sector.

The Founding Laws of the Solarisation Obligation

Several laws have laid the groundwork for the solarisation obligation. The law on energy and green growth, enacted in 2015, initiated reflection on self-consumption. More recently, the 2019 law on energy and climate strengthened renewable energy development targets. It was supplemented by the 2021 Climate and Resilience law, which broadened the scope of these obligations, particularly to car parks. Finally, the 2023 APER (Acceleration of Renewable Energy Production) law consolidated and clarified these requirements, marking a decisive step for building solarisation.

Evolution of Regulatory Requirements for Renewable Energies

Requirements for renewable energies on buildings have seen a notable evolution. Initially focused on overall energy performance, regulations now concentrate on on-site energy production. The tertiary decree, for example, imposes consumption reductions that encourage the use of renewables. New legislation mandates a minimum roof coverage rate by solar devices, often set at 30% of the surface, or even 50% in some cases. It is important to note that the surface taken into account is that of the panels themselves, excluding technical or circulation areas.

The Impact of New Legislation on the Building Sector

This new legislation represents a major change for the building sector. It constitutes a significant lever for the development of solar energy in France and transforms the economic model of many tertiary buildings. The obligation to integrate renewable energy production systems, whether through photovoltaics or green roofs in case of technical impossibility, encourages a rethinking of building design and renovation. Anticipating these requirements not only helps avoid penalties but also transforms a regulatory constraint into an economic and environmental opportunity, for example, by fostering the development of collective self-consumption.

All these measures aim to reduce the carbon footprint of constructions and accelerate the national energy transition, thereby contributing to the goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.

Identifying Buildings Affected by Solarisation

To determine which buildings are subject to the solarisation obligation, several criteria must be considered. The law primarily targets new builds and significant renovations, especially those with a certain surface area. The idea is to ensure that large spaces contribute to green energy production.

Surface Area and Footprint Criteria for Buildings

The general rule is based on the building’s footprint, i.e., the area the building occupies on the ground. If this area exceeds a certain threshold, generally 500 m², the building is affected. The roof area must then be considered. The law requires that a portion of this roof, often 30%, be equipped with solar panels or a green roof system. For example, for a new warehouse with a footprint of 1900 m² and a roof of 2000 m², at least 600 m² of this roof must be covered with solar panels. It is important to note that only the areas occupied by the panels themselves count for this calculation; spaces between panels or technical areas are not included. The estimated cost of solar panels for a 200m² house can vary, but a 6 to 9 kWp system is often needed, requiring approximately 10 to 18m² of panels [0e0d].

Types of Buildings Subject to Renewable Energy Production Obligation

The solarisation obligation applies to several types of buildings, primarily those for professional use. This includes new builds or those undergoing major renovation, provided they exceed the mentioned surface area threshold. Tertiary, industrial, commercial, craft buildings, as well as offices, are directly concerned. Public access buildings (ERP) such as hospitals, schools, or cultural centres also fall within this scope. The objective is to increase renewable energy production at the business level and accelerate the national energy transition [0e0d].

Specific Cases of Extensions and Major Renovations

For existing buildings, the solarisation obligation applies during extension or renovation works deemed significant. These works must comply with the same rules as for new builds, particularly regarding the roof surface to be covered by renewable energy production devices. Successive laws, such as the Climate & Resilience law and the APER law, specify these requirements. For example, the APER law stipulates that during the construction of extensions or major renovations, certain buildings must integrate a renewable energy production process or a green roof system on at least 30% of their roof. This percentage is set to increase in the coming years [9523].

It is essential to understand that these obligations are no longer an option but a legal requirement aimed at transforming the built environment into an actor in the energy transition.

Specific Obligations for Car Parks

Beyond roofs, regulations now extend to car parks, whether covered or outdoor, provided they are accessible to the public and reach a certain surface area. The objective is to maximise renewable energy production by utilising these vast, often underused, surfaces.

Integration of Photovoltaic Canopies in Car Parks

The installation of photovoltaic canopies in parking areas has become mandatory for new builds, extensions, or major renovations of certain buildings. These structures not only produce electricity but also offer shelter for vehicles, thereby reducing the urban heat island effect.

Minimum Coverage Rate for Parking Areas

Specific coverage percentages are defined for car parks. These rates vary depending on the implementation date and the ground footprint area of the car park. For example, outdoor public car parks over 500 m² must comply with a minimum coverage rate of 50% since July 2023. Deadlines are progressive, with rates potentially reaching 50% for other categories of car parks from July 2027.

Type of Car Park	Implementation Date	Minimum Coverage Rate
Outdoor public car parks (over 500 m²)	From July 2023	50%
Existing outdoor car parks (1500 to 10,000 m²)	From July 2026	50%
Existing outdoor car parks (over 10,000 m²)	From July 2026	50%

Cumulative Obligations for Roofs and Car Parks

It is important to note that obligations relating to roofs and those concerning car parks can be cumulative. If a building is subject to the solarisation obligation for its roof and has an associated car park, both requirements must be considered. However, the law provides for provisions to avoid double counting or excessive burdens, particularly by allowing exemptions if the installation proves technically impossible or disproportionate. Exemptions may be found in specific cases where installation is impossible [f01b].

The application of these rules aims for maximum utilisation of available surfaces for renewable energy production, while taking into account the practical and economic constraints of projects.

Environmental Objectives of Solarisation

Building solarisation is part of a global approach aimed at transforming our relationship with energy and the environment. It addresses major challenges for the future of our constructions and our planet.

Reduction of CO2 Emissions from Buildings

The integration of renewable energy production systems, particularly photovoltaics, on roofs and car parks directly contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of the building sector. By producing cleaner electricity locally, dependence on fossil fuels, often sources of greenhouse gas emissions, is reduced. This approach is essential for achieving national and international climate targets.

Acceleration of the National Energy Transition

The solarisation obligation is a powerful lever for accelerating the deployment of renewable energies across the territory. It encourages the installation of green electricity production capacities, thereby actively participating in France’s energy transition. This allows for diversifying the energy mix and strengthening supply security. The example of Aulnay-sous-Bois, which optimises the use of its municipal solar power plants, demonstrates the potential of these local initiatives [0e73].

Contribution to Carbon Neutrality by 2050

Building solarisation is a key component of France’s strategy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. By making the integration of solar solutions mandatory, regulations push the building sector to become a player in clean energy production. This approach, in line with regulations like RE2020 which aims to improve energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint [5b14], is fundamental for building a sustainable future. Self-consumption, enabled by these installations, also helps stabilise energy costs in the long term [517a].

Solutions for Meeting the Solarisation Obligation

Faced with the solarisation obligation, several options are available to building owners and managers. The objective is to produce renewable energy or, failing that, to green roofs to improve insulation and biodiversity. It is important to understand the different possible avenues to choose the one that best suits your situation.

Installation of Photovoltaic Solar Panels

The installation of photovoltaic solar panels is the most direct solution to meet the renewable energy production obligation. It allows for generating electricity that can be self-consumed or fed back into the grid. This approach actively contributes to local green energy production and can offer economic value through feed-in tariffs. It is essential to ensure that the installation complies with current standards to guarantee its safety and efficiency, as stipulated by best practices for a photovoltaic system.

The advantages of this approach include:

• Production of clean, local electricity.
• Reduced dependence on fossil fuels.
• Potential return on investment through the resale of surplus electricity.

The integration of solar panels on roofs is a key step towards achieving national energy transition objectives.

Implementation of Green Roof Systems

When the installation of solar panels is not technically feasible or desirable, green roofs constitute a regulatory alternative. This type of roof, often called a vegetated roof or green roof, uses specific cultivation techniques that limit the use of potable water, favouring reclaimed water. Beyond the ecological aspect, these systems offer excellent thermal insulation and contribute to the preservation of biodiversity in urban environments. They can also help manage rainwater. Regulations, particularly those concerning photovoltaic ICPEs, can influence the choice of materials and techniques.

The benefits of greening are multiple:

• Improved thermal insulation of buildings, reducing heating and air conditioning needs.
• Contribution to urban biodiversity through the creation of wildlife habitats.
• Rainwater management and reduction of runoff.

Combination of Biosolar Approaches

A third approach consists of combining the two previous approaches, thereby creating so-called

Anticipating Deadlines and the Solarisation Schedule

Complying with new regulations on renewable energy production requires rigorous planning. It is essential to fully understand the key dates to avoid any unpleasant surprises and optimise the implementation of your solarisation projects. The deployment schedule for obligations is progressive, but some deadlines have already passed, and others are fast approaching.

Key Dates for Building Compliance

The Renewable Energy Production Acceleration (APER) law introduced obligations that apply according to specific thresholds and dates. For new builds, the obligation to cover part of the roof or land footprint with renewable energy production devices or greening applies to urban planning permit applications submitted since 1st January 2024. For existing buildings, attention must be paid to significant renovations. Tertiary buildings over 1000 m² are subject to energy consumption reduction targets, which makes solar integration particularly relevant. From 1st January 2028, all existing buildings over 500 m² will be subject to these obligations, regardless of their construction date. It is therefore prudent not to wait until the last minute to plan these works.

Implementation Deadlines for New Builds

For new builds, the integration of renewable energy production systems must be considered from the design phase. This includes the choice of roof, its orientation, and the available space for solar panels or greening systems. Adhering to these constraints from the outset greatly simplifies the process and avoids costly modifications later. It is important to note that the APER law imposes specific coverage rates for outdoor car parks over 1500 m², which must be equipped with photovoltaic canopies on at least 50% of their surface, with a deadline set for 2028. Anticipation allows for better integration of these structures into the overall project and to benefit from the advantages of the solar market.

Management of Major Renovations and Extensions

A major renovation is generally defined by works affecting the building’s structure, such as the framework or foundations. If your renovation project falls into this category and the surface area concerned exceeds the regulatory thresholds (500 m² for existing buildings from 2028, or 1000 m² for new buildings since 2024), the solarisation obligation will apply. It is therefore crucial to assess the impact of these works on regulatory compliance. The installation of photovoltaic canopies in car parks is also an obligation that must be anticipated, particularly for sites over 1500 m² which have a compliance deadline until 2028, in accordance with the renewable energy acceleration law.

Planning is key. Administrative procedures, technical studies, and funding searches can take several months, or even over a year. Anticipating allows for better cost control and ensures compliance within the allotted timeframes.

Possible Exemptions from the Solarisation Obligation

Even if the objective is to encourage renewable energy production, the law provides for situations where an exemption from the solarisation obligation may be granted. These exceptions aim to take into account specific constraints that would make the installation of solar panels or other green energy production systems particularly difficult, if not impossible, or excessively costly. It is important to note that any request for exemption must be solidly justified by concrete elements, such as technical studies, detailed quotes, or expert opinions, and must be submitted as part of the urban planning permit application. It should be known that exemptions for renewable energy production and those for greening must be justified separately.

Exemption Conditions for Technical and Architectural Constraints

Certain building configurations or specific architectural requirements may prevent the implementation of solarisation obligations. For example, roofs whose structure cannot support the additional weight of solar panels, or buildings whose aesthetics are protected by strict heritage rules, may be eligible for an exemption. Article 1414 mentions that technical constraints can be invoked, particularly in the case of major renovation, but precise cases must be clearly defined.

• Structural constraints: The integrity of the building must not be compromised by the installation.
• Architectural constraints: Compliance with heritage protection rules or aesthetic specificities.
• Installation complexity: Major technical difficulties related to the site’s configuration.

Cases of Protected Areas and Excessive Costs

Buildings located in protected areas, such as listed or registered sites, may benefit from exemptions if the installation of solar panels harms the character of the place. In such cases, the agreement of the competent authority, often the Architecte des Bâtiments de France, is necessary. Furthermore, if the cost of installation or renewable energy production is deemed excessive compared to the expected benefits or the owner’s financial capacity, an exemption may be considered. It must be proven that the incurred expenses are disproportionate. The APER law, enacted on 10th March 2023, aims to accelerate the deployment of photovoltaics but recognises these limitations via the APER law.

Justification for Car Park Exemptions

For car parks, specific exemptions also exist. These may concern ground-related constraints, presence in a protected area, insufficient sunlight, or excessively high construction costs. It is essential to provide tangible evidence to support these requests. For example, a sunlight study or a comparative quote demonstrating significant additional costs compared to alternative solutions may be required. The obligation to install canopies in car parks over 1500 m² from 2028, for example, may be subject to these exemptions for car parks over 1500 m².

It is essential to thoroughly prepare your urban planning permit application file by including all necessary supporting documents for any potential exemption request. A lack of solid justification can lead to the rejection of the request and the obligation to comply with the initial rules.

Penalties for Non-Compliance with Solarisation

Failure to comply with solarisation rules can have serious consequences. It is not just a suggestion, but a legal obligation. If your project does not meet these new requirements, you could face several types of penalties. These measures aim to encourage the implementation of renewable energies on buildings and car parks.

Financial Consequences of Non-Compliance with Obligations

Financial penalties can be substantial. For legal entities, fines can reach up to €50,000, while for individuals, they can be up to €10,000. These amounts depend on the project size and the severity of the breach. It is therefore important to accurately calculate the surface area to be covered and choose the right solution to avoid these additional costs. Considering the sale of surplus electricity can also help make the installation profitable selling surplus electricity.

Impact on Planning Permissions and Works

For new builds, non-compliance with the solarisation obligation can lead to a refusal of planning permission. Without this permission, the project simply cannot start. For existing buildings, penalties may be applied during significant renovations or extensions if the rules are not followed. This can also lead to a suspension of ongoing works if the site is not compliant.

Risks of Penalties and Fines

Beyond planning permission refusal or work suspension, penalties may be applied. These penalties are often linked to a non-respected compliance deadline. Local authorities can carry out checks during urban planning procedures to verify project compliance. It is therefore essential to have a complete file and follow directives to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Solar panel installation can be done on different types of buildings adaptability of solar installations.

It is always more judicious to integrate solarisation requirements from the project design phase. Anticipating these constraints helps avoid additional costs, construction delays, and, above all, the risk of being unable to carry out the project under the planned conditions.

Economic and Strategic Advantages of Solarisation

The solarisation obligation, although it may initially seem like a constraint, actually represents a tremendous opportunity for building owners and managers. Beyond mere regulatory compliance, it paves the way for tangible economic benefits and strengthens companies’ strategic position in their market.

Reduction of Energy Costs for Businesses

One of the most direct advantages of solarisation is the control of energy expenditure. By producing your own electricity through solar panels, you reduce your dependence on energy suppliers and their fluctuating tariffs. This local production significantly lowers your electricity bill, thereby stabilising your costs in the long term. Furthermore, any unconsumed surplus energy can be resold, generating additional income. The return on investment, although variable depending on the installation, generally ranges between 5 and 20 years, with significant savings from the first years of operation.

Improvement of Organisation Image and CSR

Adopting solarisation also sends a strong message about your environmental commitment. In a context where Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is gaining increasing importance, the integration of renewable energies enhances your brand image. This makes you more attractive to customers, partners, and investors, and positions you favourably to respond to tenders incorporating environmental criteria. Companies that anticipate these developments are perceived as modern, responsible, and forward-looking.

Opportunities for Developing Self-Consumption

Solarisation promotes the development of self-consumption, whether individual or collective. This means that you directly consume the energy you produce, thereby reducing losses related to transport and distribution. This approach is part of a broader energy transition logic, contributing to the decarbonisation of the economy and the achievement of national climate targets. It is a concrete way to actively participate in the ecological transition while optimising the management of your energy resources.

Going solar is a great idea for saving money and helping the planet. It allows you to produce your own electricity, which reduces your bills. Moreover, it’s a smart choice for the future of our environment. Want to know more about the concrete benefits of solarisation? Visit our website to discover how the sun can brighten your daily life and your wallet!

Conclusion

So there you have it, we’ve covered the topic of solarisation. It’s clear that it’s becoming a real obligation for many buildings, whether new or undergoing renovation. Laws have multiplied in recent years to push us to produce more renewable energy, especially solar. The idea is to reduce our environmental impact and move towards carbon neutrality. This mainly concerns large areas, offices, warehouses, and even car parks. There are deadlines to meet, and frankly, it’s better to start early as it can take time. If nothing is done, there are penalties, so it’s best to see this as an opportunity. We can install solar panels, or green roofs, sometimes even both. It’s a significant change, but it can also help reduce energy bills and improve a company’s image. A few details still need to be settled by official texts, but the trend is clear: our buildings must produce clean energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the solarisation obligation?

It’s a rule that mandates the installation of solar panels on the roofs of large buildings, or greening these roofs if that’s not possible. This applies to new builds, renovated buildings, and even large car parks.

Which laws created this obligation?

Several important laws have established and reinforced this rule. These include the 2019 Energy and Climate Law, the 2021 Climate and Resilience Law, and the 2023 Renewable Energy Production Acceleration (APER) Law.

What is the purpose of solarisation?

The main purpose is to make buildings more ecological by reducing pollution (CO2) and producing more clean energy. We also want to help France use more renewable energies to achieve a net-zero carbon target by 2050.

What types of buildings are affected?

Generally, these are professional buildings such as offices, shops, factories, warehouses, but also schools or hospitals, if their surface area exceeds a certain threshold (often 500 m² or 1000 m² depending on the case).

Are car parks also affected?

Yes, large outdoor car parks or those attached to buildings must also be equipped, often with solar canopies. There are rules regarding the surface area to be covered and specific dates for compliance.

Can an exemption be granted?

In certain cases, it is possible not to install solar panels. For example, if the building is in a protected area, if there are significant technical problems, if the installation is too expensive, or if there are safety risks.

What happens if the rule is not followed?

If this obligation is not followed, there can be consequences. There’s a risk of not obtaining planning permission, incurring fines, or being forced to carry out the work under financial penalties.

What are the advantages for businesses?

Installing solar panels allows for lower electricity costs, demonstrates the company’s environmental responsibility, and improves its image. It’s also a way to produce its own energy.