AIKO Secures Eligibility for Reduced VAT Rate on PV Modules in France Under New Standards

AIKO Achieves Significant Milestone in Environmental Certification

In a notable development within the renewable energy sector, AIKO has confirmed that its photovoltaic (PV) modules qualify for the reduced Value Added Tax (VAT) rate of 5.5% in France. This eligibility is based on compliance with the rigorous Product Environmental Footprint 2 (PPE2 V2) certification, which was recently introduced to promote environmentally friendly practices in solar energy production.

Under the current French regulations, residential PV systems with a capacity of up to 9 kWp can benefit from this lower VAT rate, provided they meet the stringent criteria delineated in the PPE2 V2 certification. Typically, these systems would be subject to a standard VAT rate of 20%, making AIKO’s certification a pivotal moment for homeowners looking to invest in solar power without incurring prohibitive costs.

Understanding PPE2 V2 Certification

Launched in September 2025, the PPE2 V2 certification is designed to ensure that photovoltaic modules produced in France adhere to high environmental and sustainability standards. Compliance with this certification demands work on multiple fronts:

1. Carbon Footprint Requirement: The most challenging criterion mandates that the carbon footprint of a PV module does not exceed 530 kg CO₂ equivalent per kWc. This target necessitates a decarbonization of the entire supply chain, starting from the production of polysilicon to the final module.
2. Material Restrictions: Limits are imposed on certain materials. For instance, the amount of silver must be less than 14 mg/W, while lead and cadmium concentrations must remain significantly low (under 0.1% and 0.01%, respectively).
3. Traceability of Production: Manufacturers must provide full traceability of their production processes, including the origin of silicon and the full manufacturing chain, which must be documented and available for auditing.

AIKO’s photovoltaic modules, models AlKO-A-MCE60Db and AIKO-A-MCE54Db, have successfully passed these demanding standards and are now officially listed on the Certisolis registry, signifying their eligibility for the VAT reduction.

Economic and Environmental Impact

The achievement is monumental not only for AIKO but also for the broader French market. With the ability to offer PV modules that maintain an industry-leading efficiency of 24.4%–24.5%, AIKO is poised to make solar energy significantly more accessible to homeowners while ensuring that installations deliver a strong return on investment.

Moreover, this certification reflects AIKO's commitment to sustainable practices, positioning the company as a leader in low-carbon manufacturing. As homeowners are increasingly seeking eco-friendly solutions, AIKO stands out by providing premium solar options that do not sacrifice performance or aesthetic qualities. Its all-black design is particularly appealing for residential installations, allowing for a seamless integration into roof structures.

Competitive Edge in the Solar Market

By fulfilling the PPE2 V2 requirements, AIKO has differentiated itself from competitors in the solar market. The fact that few manufacturers have successfully navigated the complexities of this certification further cements AIKO's role as a trailblazer in the industry. Customers can now take advantage of high-efficiency solar technology at a considerably lowered effective cost due to the VAT reduction, which ultimately encourages more homeowners to transition to renewable energy sources.

In conclusion, AIKO's accomplishment marks a significant advancement in the solar industry in France. It not only illustrates the company’s dedication to sustainable energy solutions but also aligns with the global effort towards reducing emissions and fostering a carbon-free future. As the demand for renewable energy continues to grow, AIKO is strategically positioned to lead the charge in innovation and sustainability, transforming how consumers approach solar energy.

For more information on AIKO and its products, visit their official website at https://aikosolar.com.