Because it can take 5 to 10 years to recoup the cost of solar panels and installation. At least in the US. Electricity might be so expensive in France now that solar panels make economic sense.
A true cost comparison includes financing and insurance. Even if you pay cash you're still financing, and that opportunity cost can be factored in pretty easily. That takes the initial cost out of consideration. For me it's always been about $0.01 more per kWh for solar all-in. This is a cost so close that the benefits of solar may make it worth it, especially considering national energy independence. France is southerly and dry enough that perhaps it makes sense for them. But I'd be surprised if this would work in e.g. the UK.
Yeah, I've gotten quotes and run numbers every few years to get solar panels for my house, but it's never come close to making financial sense. Last time the quote was $50K to enough panels to generate power to completely offset electricity costs, averaged through the year. My monthly bill is roughly $200, so it'll take about 20 years to break even unless electricity costs skyrocket. Or it might be a good deal if I could install it myself.
I just looked at $/kWh fully financed (zero down) for 20 years. It actually was slightly cheaper until I added in an extra $20/month to insure it. I quit using the break-even method because panels have fixed time guarantees and warranties, plus finance has a fixed term. So that gives you a fixed total cost, cost per kWh, and cost per month. This is apples to apples for electric service.
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