BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions partners with EDF solutions solaires

BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions has partnered with EDF solutions solaires to expand access to solar energy, using innovative financing to remove one of the biggest barriers to adoption – upfront cost.

The collaboration is designed to help businesses, particularly SMEs, transition to renewable energy by turning solar installations from a capital expense into a predictable operational cost.

EDF solutions solaires, a long-established player in the French photovoltaic market, has delivered more than 3,500 installations for businesses and local authorities and over 100,000 residential systems. Despite strong demand, many organisations, especially SMEs, continue to face challenges in accessing solar energy.

Rising electricity prices, increasing pressure to decarbonise, and limited appetite for upfront capital investment have all slowed adoption, even where solar represents a clear long-term economic benefit.

To address this, EDF solutions solaires worked with BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions to develop a leasing model that makes solar immediately accessible without requiring upfront CAPEX.

Under the solution, customers can install photovoltaic systems with no initial investment and instead pay a fixed, all-inclusive rental fee that covers installation, maintenance and performance. This approach allows businesses to align energy production with stable, long-term cost control while preserving cash flow.

“Leasing allows our customers to install solar panels without weighing down their balance sheets, with rent that includes maintenance for full cost control. In addition, the installation enhances asset value and strengthens their CSR image.”

The leasing solution offers a range of advantages for end users. By removing the need for upfront investment, businesses can adopt solar without impacting their balance sheets or limiting their ability to invest elsewhere.

Energy costs become more predictable over the life of the contract, while self-consumption models, combined with the ability to sell surplus energy, help optimise overall energy strategy. The inclusion of maintenance within the rental agreement also simplifies operations and ensures consistent system performance, with output levels supported by advanced forecasting models.

For EDF solutions solaires, the partnership is also driving commercial benefits. By eliminating financial barriers, the company can reach a broader SME audience, accelerating adoption and increasing deal flow.

The combined offer – covering equipment, financing and ongoing maintenance – creates a differentiated, turnkey solution that strengthens its competitive position in a rapidly evolving market.

As businesses across Europe look to reduce carbon emissions and manage energy costs, accessible financing is becoming a critical enabler of the transition to renewable energy.