The French government has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating the energy transition by mandating photovoltaic canopies in outdoor parking lots. This measure, part of the 2023 Renewable Energy Act, requires installing solar panel structures covering at least half the surface area of large parking lots. The deadlines are set for July 2026 for lots exceeding 10,000 m² and July 2028 for those over 1,500 m².
A measure primarily targeting the retail sector
With 70 million m² of parking areas spread across 21,000 stores and shopping centers, the retail sector is at the forefront of those affected. Industry players had requested at least a two-year postponement, citing logistical and financial challenges. However, this extension was not granted.
The decree specifies that certain areas, such as green spaces, storage zones, or logistics areas, are excluded from the calculation of mandatory coverage. However, distributors argue that other elements, such as circulation lanes, unfairly inflate the obligations.
Concerns over costs and deadlines
The Technical Federation of Distribution (Perifem) criticized the application of the decree as excessive. According to Franck Charton, Perifem’s general delegate, “these decisions will freeze land use for decades.” He also noted that the deadlines fail to account for the 18-month delay in publishing the decree and the time required to develop a French photovoltaic panel industry.
The decree does provide for certain exemptions. Parking lots where half the area is shaded by trees—calculated at one tree per three parking spaces—or those where installation costs are deemed excessive may be exempt. Despite these provisions, industry actors remain dissatisfied.
Deterrent sanctions
Non-compliant parking lot operators face fines of up to €40,000 per year until they meet the requirements. Some stakeholders view this penalty as disproportionate given the difficulties in adapting infrastructure quickly.
Dominique Schelcher, president of the U Cooperative, expressed his frustrations on the platform X, calling for simplification measures. According to him, “This is critical for our competitiveness and the strength of the French economy.” His statement reflects a broader sentiment of discontent with regulations that are seen as disconnected from economic realities.
