Since 2000, when it was launched, the Sun Plan has created the conditions for a dynamic and lasting thermal solar market: development of a high-performance professional sector (manufacturers and installers of the QUALISOL network) based on quality products adapted to the needs of buildings and their occupants. In 2004, the solar water heater market was particularly dynamic, with growth of over 50%. This dynamism should be reinforced in particular thanks to the tax credit: since January 1, 2005, it has gone from 15 to 40% for “renewable energy” equipment expenses. To develop the promotion of collective solar water heaters, in 2005, ADEME is strengthening its communication towards communities and building managers.
Led by ADEME, local authorities and industrial partners, the Plan Soleil 2000/2006 is intended to ensure the dissemination of solar thermal applications in metropolitan France. It concerns both collective applications (apartment buildings and tertiary buildings) for the production of domestic hot water and heating as the individual housing sector. It combines public awareness with an effort to train and qualify networks of installers. In 2004, the solar thermal market grew by more than 40% with the installation of 55 m © ˜ of installed collectors (340 in 38).