Solar canopies: the essentials
We cover your car parks with photovoltaic canopies that generate electricity and shelter vehicles from sun and weather. They also address the obligations of the APER law (law on accelerating renewable energy production).
Who is it for, and for what uses?
It concerns owners and managers of large outdoor car parks: shopping centres, companies, tertiary sites, hotels. The APER law requires photovoltaic canopies over at least half the surface of outdoor car parks above 1,500 m²: by 1 July 2026 for those above 10,000 m², by 1 July 2028 for those from 1,500 to 10,000 m².
What it changes for you
You make use of an already-developed surface, protect your vehicles and achieve compliance. The canopy can also feed charging points installed beneath it.
How does a canopy differ from a rooftop plant?
A canopy is built on a dedicated structure above parking spaces. It uses a large surface without touching your buildings, but its structure costs more than a rooftop installation.
It shelters vehicles from sun and weather, and it can feed charging points installed underneath.
How is the project financed?
Two structures exist: rent paid by the plant operator, or self-consumption of the electricity produced for your buildings. The applicable grants and tariffs depend on capacity and change regularly.
We cost both structures before recommending one.
Our solution
A canopy is considered along three dimensions:
| Criterion | With Eneffic |
|---|---|
| Compliance | Analysis of your obligations under the APER law |
| Production and shelter | Electricity produced and vehicle protection |
| Business model | Rent or self-consumption, depending on your project |
Thomas's take, our expert
The right set-up depends on your consumption and your area. I cost rent and self-consumption side by side, so you choose with full knowledge.
Thomas, Energy expert
Our support
A single contact supports you at every step, from the initial analysis to long-term follow-up.
YOUR PROJECT STEP BY STEP
Checking your obligations
We check whether your car park is concerned and by when.
Technical and financial study
We cost rent and self-consumption.
Installation
We build the structure, panels and connection.
Operation
We track production and maintenance.
Key takeaways
An obligation to check
The APER law targets outdoor car parks above 1,500 m².
Two possible models
Rent or self-consumption, costed together.
A dual-use car park
It generates energy and protects vehicles.
