In a recent update, ADEME, working with several key organizations such as Mines Paris – PSL, CEA/INES, and Certisolis, has revised the data used to measure the environmental impact of solar electricity in France. This update reflects major advancements in the solar industry over the last ten years. The new findings, released on September 1, 2026, reveal that photovoltaic (PV) solar power now has a significantly lower carbon footprint than previously thought. The joint statement from the involved organizations highlights the importance of these updated figures in shaping future environmental and energy policies. According to the new data, the carbon footprint of photovoltaics has dropped from 43 grams of CO₂ equivalent per kilowatt-hour (gCO₂eq/kWh) to between 20 and 30 gCO₂eq/kWh. This reduction, ranging from 30 to 50 percent compared to earlier estimates, depends on factors such as the amount of sunlight at a given location and whether the installation is on the ground or on a rooftop. The updated figures are based on 83 life cycle analyses conducted at various manufacturing sites involved in solar tenders managed by ADEME from 2022 to 2025. The carbon footprint calculation includes emissions from all stages of a solar installation's life, from the extraction of raw materials and panel manufacturing to transportation, installation, and even the end-of-life phase. For context, ADEME estimates the carbon footprint of coal-based electricity to be around 1,060 gCO₂eq/kWh and gas-based electricity at about 420 gCO₂eq/kWh. This shows that solar power is significantly cleaner than fossil fuels. It is also cleaner than the average carbon footprint of the French electricity mix, which stands at around 46.2 gCO₂eq/kWh. The reduction in the carbon footprint of solar power is due to improvements across the production chain. Manufacturers have reduced the amount of materials needed for panels and made industrial processes less energy-intensive. More efficient manufacturing techniques have lowered the electricity and heat required during production. Additionally, the electricity used in the solar industry has become less carbon-intensive over time. Improvements in panel efficiency, with current models exceeding 20 percent efficiency, have also contributed to these results, compared to much lower levels just a few years ago. These updated figures will be used by the International Energy Agency's Photovoltaic Power Systems (IEA PVPS) program, which provides important references for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers. However, the current data remains preliminary, and further comprehensive analysis is needed to confirm these results in the French context. The ongoing study aims to standardize and verify the parameters used in the calculations. Final conclusions are expected by the end of 2027.