What are the steps to follow to produce solar energy in co-ownership?

What does the regulation say?

Notice to all co-owners who wish to produce solar energy: good news! It is quite possible to install solar panels on the roof of a condominium building.

The installation of solar panels in co-ownership is a project which requires a significant investment and a strong motivation of all the co-owners. However, it also benefits from a strong argument: solar energy is renewable and can be converted into electricity (photovoltaic energy) or heat (thermal energy). It can be used to power small electrical appliances, produce heating and domestic hot water, and the profits from the energy production are returned entirely to the owner-investors.

Before starting a project, you just have to learn about the rules to follow, because the installation of solar panels is regulated.

It is the municipality that decides whether the buildings can accommodate solar panels. The owners must therefore check with the town hall to find out if a local urban plan (PLU) is applicable to the building. If the building has a historic character or is located near a historic building, specific conditions may apply and it will also require the agreement of a French building architect.

Also note: it will take between 10 and 17 years to pay off the investment, knowing that the longevity of the equipment is about 23 years.

How to proceed to switch to solar energy?

First of all, the Trade Union Council must be notified of the decision before the general assembly. Its role will be to consult professionals to obtain an opinion on the technical feasibility of the project. For installation on an existing building, a work permit must be obtained from the town hall.

Then, it will be necessary to obtain the consent of the majority of the co-owners during the general assembly. If the installation of solar panels is a collective decision, all the co-owners will then have to agree on:

• the type of installation,
  
• the development budget,
  
• the service providers to be hired,
  
• the location of the equipment,
  
• the purpose of solar panels (self-consumption or sale),
  
• energy distribution in the event of self-consumption.

Once the project has been voted in the general assembly, the union council takes over to study the technical details and the economic viability of the installation.

Finally, it is the responsibility of the syndicate of co-ownership to initiate the administrative procedures, namely:

• insurance subscription,
  
• subscription to the connection contract,
  
• the establishment of the purchase contract,
  
• the collection of authorizations.
• Important: it takes an average of 9 to 12 months to set up such a project.

Aid to finance the switch to solar energy

Installing solar panels in condominiums comes at a significant cost. However, this ecological gesture is eligible for several aids and subsidies. To help finance their photovoltaic panel installation project, owners can apply to:

• MaprimeRénov ';
• zero-interest eco-loan;
• the intermediate VAT rate of 10% and the reduced rate of 5,5%;
• aid at regional, departmental or municipal level;
• the EWC;
• ANAH aid with renovation aid.

Please note: certain conditions are required to claim these subsidies, such as the NF certification of the equipment chosen.