The energy transition is not just about producing renewable electricity; it also involves rethinking equipment design to limit their environmental impact throughout the entire life cycle.
As such, the AGEC law (Anti-Gaspillage pour une Économie Circulaire, Anti-Waste for a Circular Economy) introduced the principle of eco-modulation, applied to the photovoltaic sector through Soren.
Since January 1, 2025, the amount of the eco-contribution for solar panels is no longer flat: it varies according to their environmental performance. Manufacturers that design more environmentally friendly panels benefit from a discount.
Which panels are affected?
Only crystalline panels (monocrystalline and polycrystalline) are subject to eco-modulation.
Why? Because they represent more than 90% of the French market. Thin-film technologies (CIGS, CdTe, amorphous) are therefore not included for the time being.
What criteria and thresholds are verified for eco-contribution modulation?
We previously presented the various criteria Soren uses to establish eco-contribution amounts. You can find them in this article.
1. Carbon footprint threshold
This criterion evaluates the carbon impact of the panel during the manufacturing stage. The analysis is based on a Simplified Carbon Assessment (ECS), which is established as the reference document.
A module reference validates the carbon footprint criterion if its average ECS score is:
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- ≤ 450 kgCO₂e/kWp using the PPE2 V1 method (method involving Life Cycle Assessment of production factories),
- ≤ 630 kgCO₂e/kWp using the PPE2 V2 method (method using only default values by country and industrial process).
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If several ECS certificates cover the same module reference, the carbon footprint criterion is validated based on the ECS with the highest average score. If both PPE2 V1 and PPE2 V2 methodologies coexist for the same reference, the PPE2 V2 methodology prevails.
The selected ECS establishes the supply chain that will be studied to validate the other eco-modulation criteria. Contact us for assistance in identifying the reference ECS certificate for your modules.
2. Silver content threshold in cells
Silver is essential for the electrical conduction of solar cells, but its extraction has a major environmental and economic impact.
This criterion is verified through the factories listed in the selected ECS certificate. It is validated if the cell of the studied module has a silver quantity less than or equal to 14 mg/W.
As of July 1, 2026, the threshold will be lowered to 10 mg/W.
Reducing silver consumption limits dependence on a critical resource and makes panels more responsible.
3. Recycled content rate
This criterion promotes the integration of post-consumer recycled materials in module manufacturing—materials derived from waste generated by end-users.
To validate this criterion, the module must have a recycled content rate greater than or equal to 3% of its total mass. The calculation takes into account the criticality of components (frame, glass, etc.) and their quantity in the module. Please note: sawing losses (kerf) and recycled polysilicon contained in PV cells are not counted.
The goal is to stimulate the circular economy by reintroducing materials from end-of-life products.
4. Lead content in the module
Lead, used in certain ribbons, is a hazardous substance that complicates recycling. Lead, along with mercury and cadmium, is among the three most toxic metallic contaminants present in the environment.
To validate the eco-modulation criterion defined by Soren, the lead content in the PV module must be less than 0.1% of its mass. This criterion is verified by studying the PV module assembly factories listed in the selected ECS certificate.
As of July 1, 2026, the threshold will be lowered to 0.05% of the module’s mass.
Limiting lead improves the safety of recycling processes and reduces environmental impact.
How to prove your panels’ compliance?
To benefit from eco-modulation, it is mandatory to obtain an eco-modulation criteria assessment certificate. This certificate is valid for one year and must be renewed if you wish to continue benefiting from a reduced eco-contribution for your module references.
Certisolis is one of the bodies authorized to issue these certificates. Thanks to its long-standing and solid collaboration with this French leader in solar certification, PINK Strategy is the preferred partner to support you in these procedures.
Assessments for the various eco-modulation criteria are published on the ecodesign.solar platform developed by Soren. This platform was designed to simplify solar panel certification while ensuring increased environmental transparency. It also plays a key role in developing expertise within the PV sector by supporting industry players toward sustainable skill development.
Why these criteria matter to you
Meeting these criteria is more than just a constraint, it is a real opportunity:
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- Cost reduction: a significantly lower eco-contribution.
- Competitive advantage: your products are valued by customers mindful of environmental impact.
- Circular economy: your solar solutions are reused, recycled and highlighted in a low-impact industry.
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We are here to help
At PINK Strategy, we help manufacturers, distributors and installers to:
- Analyze their PV modules according to Soren criteria.
- Compile and centralize the necessary evidence.
- Obtain official certificates to benefit from eco-modulation.
Contact us today to check if your panels meet the set thresholds and reduce your eco-contribution costs while showcasing your environmental commitment.