The French government has confirmed plans to lower the value-added tax (VAT) to 5.5% for residential photovoltaic (PV) systems with a capacity of up to 9 kW. This new measure is scheduled to take effect from October 1, 2025.

While the official decree is still pending publication, the draft conditions are expected to be reviewed by the Higher Energy Council on September 4.

To be eligible for the reduced VAT rate, solar panels must comply with several manufacturing-related criteria. The cumulative requirements include:

• A carbon footprint below 530 kgCO₂eq per kW,

• Silver content under 14 mg per watt,

• Lead content below 0.1%, and

• Cadmium content under 0.01%.

These thresholds are intended to encourage the adoption of solar panels with lower critical metal content and a reduced environmental impact.

The draft decree also stipulates that compliance must be verified by accredited certification bodies. The certification process will require:

• Industrial traceability, including identification of production sites for modules, cells, and wafers;

• Details of the most recent audit conducted within the past 12 months; and

• Results for each of the four environmental and material criteria.

Certifications will remain valid for a period of one year.

This policy represents a significant step forward in supporting the adoption of sustainable and environmentally responsible solar energy solutions in the French residential market.

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