Do you need a new consumer unit for a heat pump or solar panels?
Written by Cofany, installer based in the Vienne (86), France ·
Short answer
Not always. A heat pump or solar panels mainly need enough supply capacity, a dedicated circuit with its protection and room in the consumer unit. An old or full unit without suitable residual-current protection will need upgrading, depending on the installation's condition; we check this during the visit.
Is my electricity subscription sufficient?
It needs checking, especially for a heat pump. An air-to-water heat pump, particularly with electric backup, adds significant winter consumption. If it replaces an oil or gas boiler, your current subscribed capacity may become too tight and cause trips.
During the visit we look at the subscribed capacity, the household's other large appliances (hob, oven, water heater, electric car) and the proposed model's output. If an increase is useful we tell you; you arrange it with your supplier. For solar panels the question is different: it is mainly about connecting the inverter and declaring the installation.
Why does a heat pump need a dedicated circuit?
Because a powerful appliance must have its own line and protection. The heat pump (and any backup) is fed by a dedicated circuit with cable size and breaker suited to its output, plus suitable residual-current protection. The same applies to reversible AC.
This requires room in the consumer unit. A full unit may need an extra row or enclosure, without necessarily redoing everything.
How are solar panels connected?
Panels connect to an inverter (central or micro-inverters) that converts direct current to alternating current, then to the consumer unit through a dedicated line. That line has specific protection (breaker, suitable residual-current device, surge protection where needed) and an accessible isolator.
The installation requires a grid connection request to the network operator and, where applicable, a certificate of compliance. We check that the consumer unit can house this protection properly.
What does the NF C 15-100 standard say?
NF C 15-100 is the reference standard for new and renovated electrical installations in French homes. It sets rules for residual-current protection, earthing, circuit sizing and socket distribution.
It applies to new or renovated parts: adding a circuit for a heat pump or solar panels means that circuit must comply. An older installation does not have to be completely redone because of this connection alone, but safety defects found (no earth, unsuitable protection) must be dealt with depending on the installation's condition.
What does Cofany check during the visit?
We inspect the electrical installation before proposing a heat pump or solar panels, to avoid surprises after fitting. We check: subscribed capacity and household consumption; the condition of and space in the consumer unit; the presence and type of residual-current protection; earthing; and the cable route to the outdoor unit or inverter.
The quote lists the necessary electrical work separately from the equipment, so you know exactly what is included. Because Cofany also does electrical work, one contact handles everything.
Schemes and eligibility change regularly; we confirm your eligibility when preparing the quote.
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