Faced with the growing demand for clean energy and smart infrastructure, photovoltaic canopy structures are emerging as an increasingly popular solution. These innovative structures serve a dual purpose: they provide covered parking spaces while producing electricity thanks to the solar panels installed on their roofs.

Used in commercial parking lots, residential driveways, and public spaces alike, solar canopies make it possible to optimize space while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

What are Ombrières photovoltaïques?

Structure ombrières photovoltaïques are covered parking canopies equipped with photovoltaic panels. It generally consists of a steel or aluminium frame supporting solar modules. Installed above parking spaces, it allows vehicles to park in the shade while the panels produce electricity from sunlight.

Unlike traditional solar installations fixed to building roofs, canopies can be built independently, making them particularly well suited for sites without available roof surfaces.

Versatile energy production

One of the main advantages of solar canopies is their ability to produce electricity locally. This energy can then be used to power nearby buildings, charge electric vehicles, or be fed into the power grid.

This makes them an ideal solution for high-traffic areas such as shopping centers, offices, airports, or train stations. For private individuals, the electricity produced can power household appliances or charge an electric vehicle, significantly reducing energy bills.

Advantages beyond electricity

Ombrières photovoltaïques are not limited to energy production. They also offer several practical and environmental benefits:

Weather protection: cars are sheltered from the sun, rain, snow, and hail.

User comfort: shaded parking is often seen as a premium option.

Environmental value: companies adopting these structures demonstrate a clear commitment to sustainable development.

Optimized space use: they make use of existing parking areas without taking up additional natural land.

Integration of electric vehicle charging stations

With the rise of electric mobility in the UK and across Europe, the need for charging infrastructure is growing. Ombrières photovoltaïques are particularly well suited to this trend. They can be equipped with charging stations powered directly by the electricity they produce, reducing pressure on the grid while promoting local, clean energy.

For businesses and municipalities, this is a forward-looking solution that enhances infrastructure while meeting expectations for sustainable mobility.

Adaptable and scalable design

Solar canopies come in various formats and can be adapted for both private use and large commercial parking lots. Models with one or two rows are available, along with modular designs that allow for progressive expansion.

The materials used are chosen for their durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Some structures even incorporate lighting systems, rainwater management, or customized finishes.

For large sites, the orientation and layout of the canopies are optimized to maximize solar yield throughout the year.

Profitability and financial incentives

In several European countries, including France and the UK, installing Ombrières photovoltaïques can qualify for financial aid, subsidies, or feed-in tariffs. These mechanisms help reduce the initial investment cost and improve medium- to long-term profitability.

Savings on energy bills, potential income from selling electricity, and the environmental value of the infrastructure make it a strategic investment.

A sustainable vision for urban planning

In the context of energy transition and sustainable development, ombrières photovoltaïques perfectly address today’s challenges. They integrate harmoniously into urban and suburban environments without encroaching on new spaces.

Combined with other green solutions such as permeable pavements, rainwater harvesting, or smart lighting, they are a cornerstone of tomorrow’s infrastructure.