France to Slash VAT for Eco-Friendly Solar Panels
The solar industry in France is on the brink of a significant shift. The government has proposed a reduced VAT rate of 5.5% for private photovoltaic installations under 9 kilowatts, set to take effect from 1 October. The industry eagerly awaits the official decree, with the draft conditions scheduled for review by the Supreme Energy Council on 4 September.
To qualify for this reduced VAT rate, solar modules must adhere to strict production-related criteria. They must have a CO2 footprint of less than 530 kg CO2 eq/kW, silver content of less than 14 mg/W, lead content of less than 0.1%, and cadmium content of less than 0.01%. The draft decree mandates certification by accredited bodies, covering industrial traceability and these four criteria, valid for one year.
These thresholds aim to encourage the production and use of modules with lower critical metal content and reduced environmental impact. However, as of October 2025, no public list exists of certified solar module technology suppliers meeting these criteria in France. No specific manufacturers have been named as certified under these conditions.
The French government's initiative to reduce VAT for eco-friendly solar modules is a step towards a greener future. While the industry awaits the official decree and certification, it's clear that this move will promote solar technology with lower environmental impact and critical metal content.
