Opinions and advice on the installation of photovoltaic panels

At 1^er As of January 1, 2023, France had more than 237,000 self-consumption solar installations... a number that should continue to grow in the context of soaring energy prices, environmental awareness and the continued decline in the purchase and installation costs of this equipment.

Are you looking to reduce your electricity bill while doing something for the planet? Photovoltaic solar panels can be an effective and sustainable solution, provided you get informed beforehand to make informed choices. 

Before embarking on an installation project, it is important to know the advantages and disadvantages of this technology, as well as the administrative steps to take and the criteria to consider when choosing the right installer. It's also crucial to read consumer reviews to avoid unpleasant surprises and ask the right questions of your service provider. Let's get started!

Our opinion on photovoltaic solar panels

Is the installation of solar photovoltaic panels necessarily profitable? Is this project feasible in all situations? There is a lot of talk about the advantages of solar panels in terms of energy savings, performance and lower carbon footprint. But what about their disadvantages? We tell you everything...

Solar panels: an investment necessarily profitable?

It is a fact: the profitability of photovoltaic installations has greatly improved over the last ten years, and the investment in photovoltaic panels has become more attractive, both for individuals, companies and communities. This improvement in profitability over time can be explained by four economic, technological and regulatory factors:

1. Lower prices for solar panels. Thanks to the evolution of manufacturing processes, large-scale production and competition on the market, particularly with the arrival of Chinese players, the cost of production and installation of solar panels has dropped considerably over the last 20 years. Some observatories estimate this decrease at - 80 % if we compare 2023 to 2008;
2. Extended panel life. Modern photovoltaic systems have an average lifetime approaching 30 years, with less steep yield loss curves, stabilizing around 80 to 88 % over 20 to 25 years. The reliability of newer solar panels reduces the cost of repair and troubleshooting and therefore accelerates the payback period;
3. Soaring fossil fuel prices. The rising cost of energy, especially in the context of the war in Ukraine, makes renewable energies such as solar more competitive;

4. Government incentives. France offers financial aid and tax incentives to encourage the adoption of renewable energy. These include reduced-rate VAT for certain photovoltaic installations, various schemes such as MaPrimeRénov', as well as the self-consumption bonus and the purchase obligation by EDF (or another local distribution company) for the surplus electricity produced, even though this is not strictly speaking aid.

So we've answered part of the question: photovoltaic installations have become more profitable over the years... but is the investment necessarily cost-effective? Everything depends on its execution and on the respect of good practices in this matter. It is necessary to distinguish here the variables on which the consumer has control from the exogenous variables: 

• Variables you can control Everything that concerns the choice of your photovoltaic panels (brand, power, sizing of the project) as well as the choice of the installer. We talk about it below.
• Exogenous variablesThere are a number of factors that are beyond your control. For example, climatic conditions. All things being equal (except climate), the same photovoltaic installation will be profitable more quickly in the south of France for obvious reasons of sunshine. Also, you are never safe from an abnormally "low sun" year, even in the south.

It is up to you to make informed choices about the variables you can control to help make your solar PV investment pay off quickly. If you do everything right, you can make your installation profitable in 10 to 15 years.

Are photovoltaic panels suitable for all configurations?

Although photovoltaic panels are an effective solution for reducing energy bills and lowering the carbon footprint of your home or business, they are not necessarily suitable for ALL configurations. 

Several factors must be taken into account to determine whether a photovoltaic installation makes sense in a given situation, and only a qualified and experienced professional will be able to give a reliable and relevant verdict. He or she will base his or her opinion on the following 8 criteria in order to give an informed opinion on the feasibility of your solar photovoltaic installation project.

#1 Sunshine 

Regions with a lot of sunshine, especially in the south of France, have a higher solar energy production. For example, a solar installation in Toulouse will produce about 30 % more energy than a similar installation in Lille. However, even in less sunny areas, solar panels can be cost-effective due to government incentives and savings on energy bills, provided the installation is cleverly designed and implemented;

#2 Panel orientation and tilt 

The optimal orientation for solar panels in France is due south. A deviation of 30 degrees to the east or west can result in a decrease in energy production of 10 to 15 %. A tilt of 30 to 35 degrees allows the maximum amount of sunlight to be captured. Too little or too much tilt can reduce energy production by 5 to 10 %. 

Sometimes the roof layout (single slope facing east), shading (trees, neighboring buildings, chimneys, antennas) and other architectural or aesthetic constraints do not allow for optimal orientation and tilt of the panels, which can affect the profitability of the project;

#3 Available surface and space

The area required for an average residential solar system can vary slightly depending on the power of the solar panels and their efficiency. For example, each 300 W panel will require between 1.6 and 1.85 m² of surface area. For example, a 3 kWp installation will require a surface area of approximately 16 to 18.5 m². These figures are given as an indication and can vary according to the specific characteristics of each panel.

If the available roof surface is not sufficient to accommodate all the solar panels required for the desired production, several solutions can be considered:

1. Use high efficiency solar panels These panels, although often more expensive, can produce more energy on a smaller surface;
2. Install the solar panels on a ground support If the space available on the roof is limited, you can always consider an installation on the ground, in the garden or on a dedicated plot, provided that you have enough free space and sunlight;
3. Spread the solar panels over several roofs If your house has several roofs with a favourable orientation, it is possible to distribute the solar panels over these different surfaces;
4. Opt for a partial self-consumption installation In this case, you can choose to install a small number of solar panels to cover part of your energy needs, in addition to the energy supplied by the electrical grid.

#4 Building Structure and Strength 

Solar panels and associated equipment can weigh up to 15 kg/m². If the building structure is not strong enough, reinforcement work may be required, which will increase the overall cost of the installation.

If the roof requires major repairs or replacement in the near future, it is best to do this work before installing solar panels to avoid additional costs associated with the removal and reinstallation of the solar system.

#5 Energy consumption 

Solar panels are suitable for a variety of settings, including energy-intensive buildings, such as industrial businesses, shopping centers or farms, as well as households. A properly sized solar installation can meet a significant portion, if not all, of a household's energy needs. For example, a 3 to 6 kWp installation can cover between 30 and 60 % of the energy consumption of an average household in France.

#6 Housing Occupancy

It's not often talked about, but it's an important point that can undermine your investment. If you plan to move in the near future, the profitability of the solar installation could be reduced due to the limited time to recover the initial investment and the cost of dismantling and reinstallation.

#7 Cost and profitability of the photovoltaic installation

Here are some situations where budget and cost effectiveness could be an issue:

• High initial investment If the cost of installing the solar panels and associated equipment exceeds the owner's budget (including grants), the photovoltaic project may not be feasible;
• Low profitability If the solar energy production is insufficient due to exogenous factors such as low sun exposure, inadequate orientation or space constraints, the profitability of the installation may not justify the initial investment;
• Return on investment period too longThe project may be questionable due to factors such as low energy production;
• Future changes in government incentives The reduced VAT, the incentives for self-consumption and the possibility to sell the surplus energy play a crucial role in the profitability of solar installations. If these incentives were to decrease or disappear, the profitability of the project would be affected.

#8 Local regulations

In certain protected areas such as classified sites or safeguarded sectors, specific restrictions may apply to solar installations. It is essential to consult the local rules and to ask for the necessary authorizations before starting the project.

As you can see, the conditions that determine the feasibility of a photovoltaic installation project are not really difficult to meet. This explains the enthusiasm of households for this solution, which guarantees great energy savings while doing something for the planet.

Solar panels: advantages and disadvantages for an informed choice

We have scoured hundreds and hundreds of consumer reviews of solar panels to identify the main perceived advantages and disadvantages. We accompanied each advantage and disadvantage with examples and/or advice from professionals.

Benefits	Examples / Practical advice
Energy savings	A household consuming 3,500 kWh per year with a 3 kWp installation can save approximately 40-50 % on their electricity bill. Analyze your energy consumption and size your installation accordingly to maximize the savings.
Resale of surplus	Choose a purchase contract adapted to your situation (self-consumption with sale of the surplus or total sale) to optimize the profitability of your installation.
Energy independence	For satisfactory energy independence, consider installing an energy storage system, such as a battery, to store energy generated during the day for use at night.
Ecology	Make your friends and family aware of the environmental benefits of solar installations to encourage the energy transition at your level.
Real estate valuation	A home equipped with solar panels can increase in value on the real estate market. Be sure to maintain your system regularly to preserve its value.
Creation of local jobs	The development of the solar sector creates local jobs, especially for installers and maintenance companies.
Light maintenance	Contrary to what one might think, photovoltaic panels require little maintenance, provided that the installation has been done properly.
Aids and incentives	The state gives an interesting boost to reduce the remaining costs.
Disadvantages	Examples / Practical advice
High initial cost	Find out what financial assistance is available to reduce the initial cost of your installation. Solar panel prices have dropped over the past 20 years, making the investment more affordable.
Maintenance and repair	While solar panels are generally reliable, they can sometimes require repair or maintenance. Choose a trusted installer and be sure to follow maintenance recommendations to prevent costly breakdowns and damage.
Aesthetics	Some homeowners may find solar panels unsightly. Explore the options of building-integrated panels or solar tiles for a more discreet installation.
Geographical limitations	Regions with high sunlight levels are more suitable for solar installations, but solar panels can be installed in less sunny regions provided the size and orientation of the installation is adapted.

User opinion: 5 golden rules to follow for a successful photovoltaic installation

Once again, our team of experts has mobilized its experience to compile the 5 golden rules most frequently cited by users to make your photovoltaic installation profitable.

1. Think long term and think ahead Consider your current energy consumption and plan for the future. For example, if you plan to buy an electric vehicle in the next few years, think about the charging station now to adapt the power of your solar system accordingly. Also consider family changes, such as retirement or the arrival of a child, which can impact your consumption.
2. Do not compromise on the quality of the material You are making a long-term investment. Choose solar panels from well-known brands such as SunPower, LG or DualSun if you are looking for made in France. These brands offer high-performance equipment with performance guarantees of more than 20 years and a lifespan of 30 years or more, with very good efficiency after 20 years. Also, choose quality inverters, such as those manufactured by SMA or SolarEdge, to ensure optimal performance and simplified maintenance... bearing in mind that inverters generally come with a much lower warranty (around 10 years);
3. Use local expertise whenever possible Find an experienced and RGE certified installer in your area. For example, if you live in Brittany, look for a professional who has already completed installations in areas exposed to strong winds and salt spray. Ask for local references and take the time to visit previously completed installations to assess the quality of the work. Customer reviews can also help you, whether on review platforms or specialized forums;
4. Maximize self-consumption and resale of surplus Adapt your consumption habits to make the most of the energy produced by your solar panels. For example, program your household appliances to work during the hours of sunshine. If you have a surplus, find out about electricity resale schemes: a purchase contract with EDF or another energy supplier will allow you to sell the energy not consumed at a rate guaranteed for 20 years;
5. Maintenance and performance monitoring Regular and intelligent maintenance of your installation. For example, clean the solar panels annually with demineralized water to prevent scale deposits. Regularly monitor your system's production with a monitoring system, such as the SolarEdge mobile app, which will allow you to track production in real time and quickly identify any anomalies to prevent them from causing costly breakdowns.

How to choose the right installer for your photovoltaic solar panels?

The choice of installer is critical to the success and profitability of your PV installation project. A competent and experienced installer will guide you through the entire process, from planning to sizing and selecting the best equipment to commissioning your system.

We have compiled for you 7 decisive criteria that will help you make an informed choice.

#1 Certifications and quality labels 

Before signing a contract, ask the installer to provide you with a copy of his certifications. Look for the RGE (Reconnu Garant de l'Environnement), QualiPV and QualiSol label. Check the websites of the certification bodies to verify the validity of the labels and certifications that the installer claims to have.

#2 Feedback and recommendations from other clients 

To verify the veracity of customer reviews, look for feedback on independent, non-moderate platforms like Google My Business and Trustpilot. Also reach out to your personal network for recommendations.

#3 Transparency on prices and guarantees

Ask the installer to explain each element of the estimate in detail, and don't hesitate to do some online research to verify that the prices quoted are in line with the market.

#4 Availability and responsiveness of the installer in case of problems 

Test the installer's responsiveness by asking questions via email or phone. A quick response time and clear communication are signs of good customer service.

#5 The quality of the proposed solar panels 

Look for independent reviews and tests of the brands and models of solar panels, inverters and mounting brackets offered. You can also ask the installer to provide you with product data sheets or test reports.

#6 Installer's technical expertise and experience

To verify the installer's experience, ask for evidence of previous work, such as photos of similar projects or customer testimonials. You can also check the company's business registry to see how long the company has been in business.

#7 After-sales service

To assess the quality of after-sales service, check online reviews that specifically mention after-sales service and ask the installer specific questions about response times, any fees and maintenance requirements.

By following these tips, you should be able to choose a competent and trustworthy installer for your photovoltaic project.

The administrative steps to be taken for a photovoltaic panel installation

The authorizations to be obtained from the town hall and the steps to be taken with the electricity supplier

Here is an overview of the main steps to follow to install photovoltaic panels on your property. Each step described in the table below will guide you through the administrative steps necessary to complete your solar project, from the preliminary declaration of work to the commissioning of your installation.

Name of the step	Description
Prior declaration of work	Make a prior declaration of your work of installation of photovoltaic panels to your town hall. The request is compulsory for all powers and for the installations with a height higher than 1,80 m. The instruction period is one month maximum, two months for a classified area.
Connection request	Choose between self-consumption, self-consumption with sale of the surplus or total sale of the electricity produced.  Put together your connection request file with Enedis, including planning permission, a site plan, a mandate from your installer, and your choice between resale and/or consumption of your electricity production.  Enedis studies your file and sends you a connection proposal.
Certificate of electrical conformity (CONSUEL) and Self-Consumption Agreement without Injection (CACSI)	After the connection work, obtain a certificate of compliance to ensure the safety of your electrical installation. For total self-consumption with a power less than or equal to 3 kWp, provide a certificate of compliance on honor and sign the CACSI with Enedis.
Sale of solar electricity: purchase contract	If you do not choose total self-consumption, sign a contract with EDF OA (Obligation d'Achat) to sell your electricity production. The application for the purchase contract is included in the connection request. You will benefit from the feed-in tariffs corresponding to the power of your installation and the chosen injection method.
Commissioning of your solar installation	Proceed with the commissioning of your solar panels within 18 months of your connection request.

Grants and financial aid available for solar projects (in France)

To encourage households to negotiate the ecological shift and reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, the government offers a range of financial aid to help finance their photovoltaic installation projects. These aids will allow you to reduce the remaining costs, to spread the expenses over time and thus to accelerate the profitability of your investment. Summary : 

1. The obligation to purchase. This is not a subsidy in the strict sense of the word. In fact, the State sets a resale price for the surplus electricity, on a 20-year contract that runs from the moment your photovoltaic installation is in service. The resale prices change every quarter, and depend on two factors: type of sale (total production, or surplus electricity after self-consumption), and power of the installation;
2. The self-consumption premium. If you consume the production of your solar panels yourself, you are entitled to this premium which is spread over the first 5 years of operation of your installation. The amounts of the premium vary each quarter, but they are around 430 € per kWp for installations less than or equal to 3kWp, around 320 € per kWp for installations between 3 and 9 kWp, 180 € per kWp for installations between 9 and 36 kWp, and 90 € for installations between 36 and 100 kWp.
3. The reduced rate of VAT. If your photovoltaic installation has a power less than or equal to 3 kWp, you benefit from a reduced VAT rate of 10 % (instead of 20 %). Note: the installation of a thermal panel or a heat pump allows you to benefit from an even more advantageous VAT rate, set at 5.5 % ;
4. The zero interest eco-loan (Eco-PTZ). It can reach up to 30 000 € on installations intended to produce heat. Attention: photovoltaic solar panels are not eligible. This loan covers aerovoltaic panels (hybrid air solar collectors) and thermal solar panels;
5. MyRenovationPrimeThis program provides financing for solar thermal panels that produce domestic hot water and hybrid solar panels (or PVT) that produce both electricity and domestic hot water;
6. MaPrimeRenov' SerenityThe "Habiter Mieux Sérénité" program, formerly known as "Habiter Mieux Sérénité", is intended for low-income to very low-income households to combat energy insecurity;
7. The energy bonusThe "Coup de pouce économies d'énergie" (energy savings incentive) allows you to finance heating and renovation work in your primary and secondary residences;
8. Local aids Contact your departmental or regional council to see if they offer additional assistance to finance your photovoltaic project.

The different types of photovoltaic solar panels and their specificities

Choosing the right type of panel is a crucial criterion to ensure the performance and profitability of your photovoltaic installation. Of course, each panel type has its strengths and weaknesses in terms of performance, durability and cost. Let's explore the three most common panel types in France to help you make an informed choice.

Monocrystalline, polycrystalline and amorphous solar panels

Use the summary table to identify the type of solar panels best suited to your situation and budget.

Type of panel	Definition	Benefits	Disadvantages
Monocrystalline	Made from a single crystal of pure silicon.	High efficiency (15 - 22 %)Good performance in low light conditionsAesthetically elegant	Higher cost Requires less space, but not ideal if space is limited
Polycrystalline	Made from multiple silicon crystals fused together.	Lower cost compared to monocrystalline panelsAverage yield (13 - 18 %)	Slightly lower yieldsAesthetically less attractive (grainy and bluish)
Amorphous (amorphous silicon)	Made from non-crystalline silicon deposited in thin layers on a substrate.	Lowest costLightweight and flexibleCan be used on uneven surfaces and for portable applications	Low efficiency (6 - 12 %)Generally shorter life spanRequires more space for equivalent power

The differences in performance and durability between the different types of panels

The performance and durability of solar panels vary depending on the type of technology used in their manufacture. 

Monocrystalline panels offer the highest efficiency of the three main types of solar panels, due in part to the purity of the silicon crystal used in their manufacture. Monocrystalline panels are composed of a single silicon crystal, which allows for a more efficient flow of electrons and better conversion of solar energy into electricity. As a result, monocrystalline panels have an energy efficiency of 15 to 22 %.

In terms of durability, monocrystalline panels also have a longer lifespan that can exceed 25 years. The high quality manufacturing and pure silicon material contribute to their longevity.

Polycrystalline panels are made from multiple silicon crystals fused together, which results in slightly lower efficiency than monocrystalline panels. The boundaries between the individual crystals create "barriers" that impede the movement of electrons and reduce the efficiency of converting solar energy into electricity. As a result, polycrystalline panels have an energy efficiency of 13 to 18 %.

As far as durability is concerned, polycrystalline panels also have a long life span, although slightly less than monocrystalline ones. It is generally estimated at + 20 years.

Finally, amorphous panels are manufactured by depositing thin films of non-crystalline silicon on a substrate. This thin-film technology results in significantly lower efficiency than monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels, with efficiency rates between 6 and 12 %. This moderate efficiency is caused by the "atomic disorder" of amorphous silicon, which limits the material's ability to efficiently convert solar energy into electricity. Amorphous panels also have a shorter life span due to their susceptibility to light-induced degradation ("Staebler-Wronski" phenomenon). However, technological improvements have made it possible to increase the lifespan of some amorphous panels, which can now reach 15 to 20 years with a correct output.

What type of solar panel should I choose for my photovoltaic installation?

Obviously, if you have the budget, opt for monocrystalline solar panels. However, if you want to optimize your budget, consider the following criteria: 

1. Energy efficiency Monocrystalline panels: If you are looking for high efficiency to maximize energy production in a limited space, monocrystalline panels are the most suitable. Polycrystalline panels can be an interesting alternative if you have more space and want to reduce costs. Amorphous panels are more suitable for low power consumption applications, such as portable solar chargers;
2. Initial investment cost Monocrystalline panels are more expensive than polycrystalline panels because of their manufacturing process and higher efficiency. Amorphous panels are the least expensive, but their lower efficiency may not compensate for their lower cost;
3. Durability and warranty Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels have a longer lifespan and offer more extensive warranties than amorphous panels. If durability and warranty are important to you, choose monocrystalline or polycrystalline panels;
4. Climatic and environmental conditions Monocrystalline panels are more efficient in sunny conditions (south of France in particular), while amorphous panels can work better in low light and cloudy conditions. Polycrystalline panels offer a compromise between the two. Consider the weather conditions and sun exposure in your area when choosing the most suitable panel type;
5. Aesthetics Monocrystalline panels have a uniform, black appearance, while polycrystalline panels have a bluish appearance and visible crystal patterns. Amorphous panels can be more discreet due to their thin-film structure. If the appearance of your solar installation is important to you, consider the aesthetics of each type of panel.

Solar panels: overview of users' opinions

Opinions and feedback from users are mostly positive, whether on the energy savings achieved, the reliability of the equipment or the professionalism of the installers. However, there are a few glitches, disappointments and, sometimes, scams. We have divided these opinions and feedbacks into four categories.

Type of notice	Examples
Customers satisfied with the installer and the savings	" I notice an average of 30 % of energy independence since the installation at the beginning of March. This is in accordance with the initial calculations, taking into account the luminosity of a timid spring in Dordogne. I am globally satisfied with this investment. " " I am satisfied with the installation and the equipment provided. The quality of the work and the performance promised are there. " " Perfect installation of the panels by my installer. After 3 weeks of use, the production is optimal. To be confirmed in time. Above all, a huge thank you to my installer. "
Customers satisfied with the installation, but did not achieve the expected energy savings	" I have no problem with the 8 panels of 500 WC installed in December 2022. With 4 kWp, I am instantly producing a maximum of 2.7 kWh. I hope that in the peak season I will be able to produce at least 3.5 kWp. This is what I was promised. " " Installation of 3 kWp. I am disappointed with the production which falls enormously with the least time which is not full sun, and which is logically limited in winter. Conclusion, it will be necessary to judge on a longer period and with a more vertical sun in the sky. " " The order and work was done well and quickly. What is unfortunate is that one of the nine panels is operating at less than 30 %, even though it is facing due south, with no obstructions and no shade. " " Soon 1 month of use. I have never exceeded 4.8 kW for 6 panels installed, on full sun days (about 80 %) This seems low to me at this time. "
Satisfied customers, but disappointed to learn that the manufacturing processes of solar panels are not necessarily ecological	" I learned that it is badly recycled, thrown away after ten years. That the transport of materials pollutes a lot... " " The big problem with solar panels is recycling and the energy consumed in their manufacture. Photovoltaic panels reach an average efficiency of 30 %, the best ones going up to 40%, but the panels with the best efficiency require more energy to manufacture and are more complicated to recycle, it is a vicious circle ".
Dissatisfied customers for various reasons	" Numerous technical errors in the study file led to the cancellation of the project. Unprofessional team with little interest in the project. Disappointing. " " I spent thousands to buy 60 panels and they end up producing 20 % of what they were supposed to! "

FAQ: our answers to your questions about photovoltaic panels

Here is a small summary of the main points covered in this comprehensive guide to photovoltaic panel reviews.

Is the installation of solar panels profitable?

It is undeniable that the profitability of photovoltaic installations has improved significantly over the last ten years, making the investment in solar panels more attractive for individuals, companies and communities. 

This improvement in profitability is due to economic, technological and regulatory factors such as the decline in the price of solar panels (-80 % over the last 20 years), the extension of their lifespan, the surge in the price of fossil fuels and government incentives. 

The return on your investment depends on variables within your control, such as the choice of panels and installer, as well as exogenous variables, such as weather conditions. If the installation is done properly, it is possible to get a return on investment in 10 to 15 years.

What are the disadvantages of solar panels?

Solar panels are an excellent solution for producing renewable energy, but there are a few negative points to consider to avoid unpleasant surprises:

• The initial cost of installation can be highBut the government's financial aid and incentives (and the optimization of the installation) can help you limit the remaining costs; 
• Solar panels require regular maintenance and may sometimes require repairs. By choosing a trusted installer and following maintenance recommendations, these costs can be minimized;
• Some homeowners may find solar panels unsightlyHowever, alternative solutions such as building-integrated panels or solar tiles are available for a more discreet installation;
• It is important to take into account the geographical limitations in terms of sunlight. Regions with more sunshine are more suitable for solar installations, but it is possible to install solar panels in less sunny regions by adapting the size and orientation of the installation.

Is it always interesting to install photovoltaic solar panels?

Professionals consider several factors to determine whether a photovoltaic installation is feasible for a home or business:

• Sunshine In the south of France, for example, areas with more sunshine will necessarily guarantee higher performance. However, even in less sunny areas, solar panels can be cost-effective if the installation is designed intelligently;
• Panel orientation and tilt Solar panels should face south to maximize their energy production. A 30-degree shift to the east or west can result in a decrease in energy production of 10 to 15 %. Similarly, too little or too much tilt can reduce energy production by 5 to 10 % ;
• Available surface and space The area required for a photovoltaic installation depends on the power and efficiency of the panels. High-efficiency panels are more expensive, but can produce more energy on a smaller area. If roof space is limited, a ground-mounted installation can be considered;
• Structure and strength of the building Solar panels and associated equipment can weigh up to 15 kg/m². If the building's structure is not strong enough, reinforcement work may be required, increasing the overall cost of the installation;
• Occupancy of the dwelling If you plan to move in the near future, the profitability of the PV system may be reduced due to the limited time to recover the initial investment and the cost of dismantling and reinstallation;
• Cost and profitability of the photovoltaic installation The initial investment, the profitability of the installation, the payback period and future changes in government incentives can affect the feasibility of the project;
• Local regulations In some protected areas, specific restrictions may apply to solar installations. It is therefore important to apply for the necessary permits before starting the project.