Chabrol School's roof terrace, originally designed as a playground extension, was unusable during the summer months owing to the lack of shade. Its ideal sun exposure, long considered a major drawback, proved to be an advantage for the installation of solar PV shading. The 100 m² of translucent solar panels installed on a metal arch structure now combine renewable energy production with comfort for the schoolchildren.

"During preliminary studies, an 18-metre gap was identified directly below the metal framework, making it impossible to use the rolling scaffolding that had initially been planned. We had to call in qualified rope access technicians to install the PV panels safely. This solution required careful consideration of safety, logistics and precision of execution," explained photovoltaic engineer and Business Manager Yara Saad. Despite this technical and organizational challenge, the integration system was installed and the panels fitted during the autumn half-term holidays, in just two weeks.

The roof structure is designed to provide shade, and supports 54 PV panels with peak power of 24 kWp, as well as eight dummy panels cut to size for aesthetic reasons. In addition to generating electricity, the 100 m² of solar panels allow some natural light to pass through, creating a bright but shady space.

“The electricity produced is utilized via a collective self-consumption contract, enabling neighbouring municipal buildings to be supplied and optimizing local production impact,’ continued Yara Saad. This solar roof will generate between 15,000 and 18,000 kWh per year, and will cover nearly a third of the school’s electricity needs. The project was funded through participatory budgeting. It is part of the City of Paris' Climate Plan, which sets a target of 100% renewable energy by 2050, with 20% produced locally.