France solar projects expansion: Annual 2 GW tenders drive growth
France is taking significant strides to enhance its solar power capacity by launching annual tenders for 2 GW of solar projects, as reported by PV Tech. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to transition to renewable energy sources and establish France as a leader in solar energy.
The French Ministry of Energy Transition has announced plans to increase the tender volumes for solar projects in 2024 and 2025. These tenders will encompass 1 GW for ground-mounted projects, 600 MW for rooftop installations, and 400 MW for solar projects in parking areas. This diversified approach is designed to maximize the use of available space and integrate solar energy into different environments across the country.
To further bolster this initiative, the Ministry has announced a new tender specifically for ground-mounted solar projects, which will include 1 GW of capacity and an additional 100 MW for floating solar capacity. Floating solar projects are particularly innovative, as they utilize bodies of water to generate energy, reducing the need for land use and potentially increasing efficiency due to cooler temperatures.
These tenders are aligned with France’s ambitious goal to achieve 48.1 GW of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity by 2030, a target outlined in the Energy Programming Act. This goal is part of France’s broader commitment to sustainable energy and reducing carbon emissions, as detailed in the France Solar Capacity 2025 Surges with 1.4 GW Installed in Q1.
In addition to expanding solar capacity, the Ministry has introduced a groundbreaking tender for the recycling of solar panels. With a budget of €2 million for the first auction, this initiative aims to encourage research and development in solar panel recycling. This effort not only supports the growth of the solar industry but also addresses environmental concerns associated with the disposal of solar panels. The recycling tender is a critical step in creating a sustainable lifecycle for solar technology, contributing to the broader adoption of renewable energy in France.
These efforts are complemented by France’s recent achievements in solar energy, such as the closing of the C&I rooftop photovoltaic tender, as noted in France Closes the C&I Rooftop Photovoltaic Tender. Such developments underscore the country’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy infrastructure and achieving its solar capacity goals.
As France continues to invest in solar energy, it is setting a precedent for other nations aiming to transition to cleaner energy sources. With continued support and innovation, France is well on its way to becoming a global leader in solar power and sustainable energy solutions.