Over Easy Solar obtains ETN certification in France for its lightweight, vertical photovoltaic system designed for flat roofs
- Over Easy Solar
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Over Easy Solar has reached a major milestone in its commercial development in France: our xM-3 vertical photovoltaic system has obtained the certification Enquête Technique Nouvelle (ETN), paving the way for its deployment on French flat roofs.
Issued by Sud Est Prévention and valid until March 2029, this ETN confirms the suitability of our solution for roof installation, both in new construction and renovation projects, with a favorable opinion under certain conditions of use. It provides a recognized technical basis for working with inspection bodies, insurers, and local partners, and officially marks our entry into the French market.
A solution designed to preserve the roof
The xM-3 system is based on prefabricated units integrating bifacial photovoltaic modules mounted vertically in an interconnected structure. Unlike many conventional flat roof systems, it is installed without intrusive fixings or penetration of the waterproofing membrane. Its surface load is approximately 12 kg/m², enabling optimized integration across a wide range of load-bearing structures.
Its stability is ensured by the system's own weight, the interconnection of the units, and friction with the roof surface. Thanks to the vertical configuration of the modules, uplift forces are negligible and, in most cases, the system can be installed without ballast, depending on site conditions.
“In many projects, the question is not just about installing solar panels, but about doing so without compromising the roof in the long term. With this ETN, we can now offer an alternative suitable for existing buildings, green roofs, and projects where accessibility and maintaining waterproofing are priorities.”
Trygve Mongstad, CEO of Over Easy Solar
Compatible with flat and green roofs
The ETN defines an employment area covering the entire metropolitan territory, including:
wind zones 1 to 4,
snow zones A to C,
and seismic zones 1 to 4.
The system is compatible with various types of flat roofs compliant with applicable DTU standards, as well as with extensive, semi-intensive, and intensive green roofs, in accordance with NF EN 13948. Specific supports are provided depending on the roof type, including higher feet designed for green roofs, ensuring sufficient distance between the photovoltaic modules and the roof surface.
A response to the constraints of renovation projects
With the strengthening of the French regulatory framework for solar and green roofs, many projects are encountering constraints related to load, waterproofing, or access to rooftop equipment. While some lightweight photovoltaic solutions rely on gluing or welding, the Over Easy Solar system offers a non-intrusive alternative, particularly suited to existing buildings and sensitive projects.
The system is also based on a prefabricated unit architecture, delivered ready for rooftop installation. This approach reduces on-site interventions, limits technical interfaces, and simplifies implementation.
Installation is carried out quickly through the assembly and interconnection of units, without heavy works on the roof or intrusive interventions on the waterproofing system. This method can help shorten construction timelines and reduce operational constraints, particularly in existing or occupied buildings.
First commercial project delivered in France
Over Easy Solar has also completed its first commercial project in France. The installation, carried out on the roof of a seaside residence in the Alpes Maritimes, features 35 VPV units for a total power of 8.96 kWp.
The system was chosen due to the site's aesthetic constraints, as part of the roof was highly visible from the surrounding area. The VPV Unit allowed for a more discreet integration, consistent with the building's architecture, where conventional photovoltaic solutions were unsuitable.
