Gwénaëlle Deboutte
Negative electricity prices in France hit a new record
Negative electricity prices are making a strong comeback in the French energy market. Driven by rising photovoltaic output and reduced nuclear flexibility, they dominated much of April, often falling close to the regulatory floor.
France publishes specifications for 925 MW ground-mounted solar tender
The French energy regulator has released the specifications for the ninth period of the PPE2 ground-mounted solar auction, covering projects above 500 kW and setting a submission deadline of July 30, 2026.
France streamlines renewables environmental permitting with new provisions
Published in the French Official Journal on April 22, a new decree aims to speed up the handling of appeals against strategic environmental projects, particularly in the renewable energy sector. It introduces direct access to administrative courts of appeal and tightens rules on deadlines and procedures for challenging projects.
France deploys 1.41 GW of solar in Q1
New figures from grid operator Enedis reveal that France added 1,418 MW of new PV capacity in Q1 2026, roughly matching Q1 2025, despite a broader sector slowdown linked to regulatory changes and delayed tenders.
Voltalia secures €100 million financing amid restructuring
Voltalia has secured €100 million ($116.8 million) in shareholder financing to support its restructuring plan and asset divestment program as it advances its “Spring” transformation strategy.
Switzerland deploys 1.52 GW of solar in 2025
Switzerland’s photovoltaic market slowed in 2025, with newly installed capacity falling 15% to 1,526 MW, according to Swissolar. Despite the decline, growth in residential storage, building electrification, and EV integration points to a gradual market recovery.
Solar, mining groups partner to improve mineral traceability
The Solar Stewardship Initiative (SSI) and the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) have signed an agreement to strengthen traceability and sustainability standards across solar supply chains.
France introduces cybersecurity, sustainability requirements in solar tenders
The French authorities announced they will assign 288 MW of PV in the 2026 tender for projects ranging from 100 kW to 500 kW in size and 925 MW in the procurement exercise for PV systems exceeding 500 kW. The tenders will include cybersecurity requirements as well as provisions to support European manufacturing.
France lowers PV feed-in tariffs for systems up to 100 kW
France’s energy regulator has reduced feed-in tariffs (FITs) for PV systems up to 100 kW for the April to July 2026 period, with lower rates across all segments and reduced compensation for surplus electricity.
France proposes linking solar subsidies to storage as prices turn negative
France’s energy regulator plans to link PV support to storage as negative power prices increase and reduce solar revenues.
