Solar: to avoid falling into the trap
Are you interested in photovoltaics and have questions? Answers with Édouard Chesnel, from the Regional Center for Renewable Energies.
How much do the purchase and installation of panels cost?
“A 3 kWc installation (about 25 m²) costs between €10,000 and €12,000 today, including installation. To compare quotes, always look at the price per watt-peak (Wp).”
Does the system need a minimum surface area to be effective?
“No. There are inverters suitable for any power level. But production will be proportional to the installed power.”
Can I install panels on any type of roof?
“Roof integration systems exist for all types of frameworks (wood or metal). The framework must be able to support the weight of the photovoltaic installation, but the weight per square meter of a photovoltaic system is less than that of tile or slate.”
What is a 'roof-integrated' photovoltaic installation?
“It is an installation that replaces the existing roofing element (tiles, slates, steel sheet...) and whose photovoltaic modules, with the integration system, ensure the roof's waterproofing. The installation then has two functions: to produce electricity and to ensure the building's waterproofing. To benefit from the best electricity purchase rates, the installation must be integrated.”
Are panels in a protected area feasible?
“To install, a prior work declaration must be submitted to the town hall. This is subject to the opinion of the Architect of the Buildings of France if the home is located in protected heritage areas (notably Historical Monuments). The latter can accept, refuse, or accept under conditions. They may consider, in particular, the co-visibility with a listed monument or aesthetic criteria regarding the integration system, the color of the modules, etc.”
Can I demand French-made panels?
“If the installer does not offer the desired product, the client is free to turn to another professional. Today, there are a number of modules manufactured in France and Europe. However, it is necessary to distinguish between the assembly location of the modules and the manufacturing location of the components, notably the photovoltaic cells. A module can be assembled in a factory in France with cells from Asia.”
How much will I sell my production for?
“Photovoltaic electricity purchase contracts guarantee a purchase rate for twenty years. Its amount is set when the complete connection request is made. Every quarter, it is re-evaluated downwards for new connection requests. Once the project is set, it is important that the professional quickly makes the connection request to benefit from the best rates.”
What is the lifespan of photovoltaic panels?
“It is estimated that the lifespan of the modules is over thirty years. During their life, the modules lose power. Most manufacturers guarantee 80% of the initial power after twenty-five years.”
Should electromagnetic fields be feared?
“No. The electricity produced by photovoltaic modules is direct current, so it does not generate electromagnetic fields. The inverter then transforms this current into alternating current but at a low voltage level, identical to that of your home's electrical circuit.”
There is no mandatory certification, but it is preferable to choose qualified companies labeled 'QualiPV'. List on www.qualipv.org. Do not hesitate to contact your Energy Info Space to help you analyze quotes.
Source: La Nouvelle République