The solar energy industry is enjoying a revival in France, driven by French Tech innovative companies and real demand from private customers. However, a number of obstacles remain. Read on for some insights from the experts at AURIS Finance, a consultancy specialising in mergers and acquisitions.
Solar panels are slowly being rolled out across France. They can be found on farm sheds, industrial buildings, car parks, commercial buildings and private homes. In 2024, France had around 25 GW of installed solar photovoltaic capacity, which generated 24.8 TWh, representing an increase of 9% over one year.
Numerous rounds of discussions
Growth is being driven by lower production costs and investor appetite. Solarock, which was set up in 2023 to install solar panels for private customers, has just completed a €3 million financing round with Pale Blue Dot, Noa, Ring Capital and Kima Ventures. The start-up had already received €3 million in financing at the time of its creation, bringing the total to €6 million in less than three years. Other French companies have also attracted investors. The Enrise Group, which specialises in solar self-consumption for commercial and industrial buildings, has raised €8 million. Ensol, a group specialising in residential photovoltaics, raised €14 million in April 2025. This latest funding round should enable Solarock to accelerate its development and launch a solar leasing offer in France.
Newcomers
Demand is growing within France. It is coming from private customers and professionals in industry, agriculture and the tertiary sector. In fact, companies that were not initially specialists in the sector are now rolling out dedicated photovoltaic offerings. One example is Murfy, a French start-up specialising in household appliance repairs, which has just announced a new solar offering following the acquisition of MC Est Solaire. Meanwhile, new offerings are emerging in the form of solar kits. These are flexible, ready-to-use solutions. The French start-up has developed plug-and-play solar panel kits that are scalable and easy to install. They are aimed at private consumers and promise rapid profitability. This innovation has enabled Beem Energy to raise €20 million.
Our experts at your service
Although French Tech is gaining a foothold in the photovoltaic sector, there are still a number of obstacles to overcome. The first is commercial: China remains the world’s leading producer of solar panels. Almost 80% of the solar panels installed worldwide are manufactured in China. Then there are the complex and evolving financial support schemes for private households. Against this backdrop, it is companies that offer innovative technology with a specific proposition that succeed in attracting investors. Start-ups that want to establish themselves in the market, such as Murphy, join an already operational company. At AURIS Finance, our experts specialise by sector. Our photovoltaic and renewable energy specialists will support you throughout the sale, acquisition or financing process.
