Solar panels in the Vienne in 2026: are they still worth it?
Written by Cofany, installer based in the Vienne (86), France ·
Short answer
Yes, provided the system is sized for the electricity you use yourself. In 2026 the self-consumption premium was abolished and the surplus buy-back price is very low; 5.5% VAT remains possible up to 9 kWp under cumulative conditions. The main gain therefore comes from self-consumption, not from selling.
What changed for solar in 2026?
Three changes affect the numbers: the self-consumption premium was abolished, the surplus buy-back price fell sharply and reduced VAT became more tightly framed.
The self-consumption premium, previously paid for systems selling their surplus, was abolished by the decree of 1 June 2026. Since that decree, the EDF OA buy-back price for electricity fed into the grid is very low for systems up to 100 kWp.
On tax, since 1 October 2025, residential systems up to 9 kWp may get 5.5% VAT, only if several cumulative conditions are met, including a low carbon footprint of the modules (under 530 kgCO2eq/kWp). The former 10% rate for systems up to 3 kWp ended on 1 January 2026.
Where does the benefit of solar come from today?
Mostly from the electricity you use directly while your panels are producing. Every kilowatt-hour you self-consume is one you don't buy from the grid. Conversely, every kilowatt-hour sold earns very little since June 2026.
A project's value therefore depends on your daytime usage: working from home, a water heater scheduled at midday, a heat pump, a pool, charging an electric car at weekends. A household away all day with no controllable usage is better off with a smaller system.
Is the Vienne a good area for solar?
Yes, sunshine in the Vienne gives decent production on a well-oriented roof. Orientation (ideally south-east to south-west), pitch and above all shading (trees, chimneys, neighbouring buildings) matter more than the region itself. A partly shaded roof can lose a large share of its output.
How does Cofany size a system?
From your real consumption, your roof and your self-consumption goals, never with a standard package. During the visit we review your bills and, where possible, your consumption curve, to see how much of your electricity is used during the day.
We then note the roof's orientation, pitch, usable area and shading, as well as the condition of the roof covering and consumer unit. Finally we discuss future uses (heat pump, electric car) and whether a battery makes sense. The quote states the proposed size, estimated production and applicable VAT conditions, to be checked at quote stage depending on the equipment.
How can I avoid solar scams?
No public scheme funds 100% of an installation. Be wary of "free" or "€1" panel offers, cold calling or door-to-door selling and pressure to sign immediately. Such offers often hide expensive credit.
Before signing, check the company's identity, the equipment details, estimated production and financing. You have a 14-day cooling-off period for a contract signed at home. Cofany never cold calls.
Schemes and eligibility change regularly; we confirm your eligibility when preparing the quote.
A project in the Vienne?
Free on-site survey and quote, reply within 48 working hours.