The solar heating system market, despite a broad industrial offer, has difficulties to develop

The program ''Soleil'' launched in 2000 for 6 years is intended to promote solar heating systems in individual or collective housing. Halfway to 2006, it appears that this program has contributed to the development of a specific industry (about 20 manufacturers are on the market in France) and of a network of qualified and trained installers. A great effort has also been made to assure the quality of the equipment and the quality of the installing. The development of solar heating systems on a long term range, requires an inciting policy from the authorities through funding and financial helps because such a heating system remains 50% to 100% more expensive than a classical oil heating system. (A.C.)