Economics
Third-party financing for solar carports
Many car park owners have neither the budget nor the wish to own a solar plant. Third-party investment lets them equip the site without investing.
The principle
A producer finances, builds and operates the carport on your car park. In exchange for a right of occupation (lease, occupation agreement), it pays rent or supplies electricity at a guaranteed price. You gain shade, compliance and sometimes charging, with no upfront investment.
Watch-outs
- Term: often 20 to 30 years, to weigh against your plans for the site.
- End of contract: dismantling, reinstatement or transfer of ownership.
- Car park operations during works and maintenance.
- APER compliance in France: who carries responsibility and deadlines.
- Changes: adding chargers, storage, redevelopment.
Other models
| Model | Investment | For whom |
|---|---|---|
| Direct investment | Owner | Sites with high demand and financial capacity |
| Third-party investment | Producer | Owners wanting income without technical risk |
| Power purchase agreement (PPA) | Producer | Sites wanting a stable electricity price |
What if the contract were shorter?
Long terms come from amortising a fixed structure. A demountable, redeployable carport makes shorter commitments possible, aligned with a lease, a concession or future plans. It is one of SUUN’s design goals. Assess your site.
Frequently asked questions
Does the owner remain responsible for APER compliance?
In principle yes; the contract with the investor must clearly set out timing and compliance commitments.
What happens to the carport at the end?
It depends on the contract: dismantling and reinstatement, extension or sale. Negotiate it from the start.
General information, up to date at the date shown. Design and regulatory compliance of each project must be validated by the competent teams.
