France installed 5.9 GW of new solar capacity in 2025, according to the latest data released by grid operators Enedis and RTE, marking a new record for the country’s photovoltaic (PV) sector.
The 2025 additions exceeded installations in previous years, including 4.6 GW in 2024, 3.1 GW in 2023, 2.6 GW in 2022, and 2.8 GW in 2021, highlighting the continued momentum of France’s solar market.
By the end of December 2025, France’s cumulative installed PV capacity reached approximately 31.1 GW.
Commercial and Agricultural сегment drives growth
The strongest growth came from the 100–500 kW segment, which accounted for around 65% of new capacity deployed in 2025. Installations in this category—primarily driven by businesses, farmers, and local authorities—rose 38% compared with 2024.
However, the outlook for this segment beyond 2025 remains uncertain. While a simplified tendering process was introduced, its first phase delivered mixed results, leaving questions about whether the strong growth trend can be sustained into 2026.
Residential market faces headwinds
France’s residential solar segment, covering installations below 36 kW, also experienced challenges. After a modest decline in 2025, residential installations totaled 929 MW, down from 1,080 MW in 2024.
The slowdown was largely attributed to delays in publishing eligibility criteria for the reduced 5.5% VAT rate applicable to systems under 3 kW. The prolonged uncertainty left many installers unable to proceed with projects for several months.
At the same time, changes to feed-in tariffs have reshaped the residential market. A fourfold reduction in compensation for surplus electricity from systems smaller than 3 kW has encouraged a shift toward 3–6 kWp installations, increasingly combined with battery storage solutions.
Cautious outlook for 2026
Despite the record-breaking performance in 2025, industry stakeholders warn that growth may slow in 2026. Key regulatory uncertainties persist, including the still-pending Multiannual Energy Program (PPE) and the schedule for upcoming solar tendering rounds, both of which will be critical in determining the pace of future deployment.
