By 2028, all French parking lots with more than 80 spots will have to be covered with solar panels, providing both shade and renewable energy.

Writing in Jalopnik, Ryan Erik King describes a new French law that will require the installation of solar panels over all surface parking lots in the country as part of an effort to shift a larger portion of the nation’s energy production to solar. “The new law goes into effect on July 1, 2023, with the deadlines for compliance set on this date in upcoming years. Smaller lots must install solar panels by 2028. Larger parking lots will be held to a stricter deadline and must comply with the new law by 2026.”
According to King, “France’s government expected to generate 11 gigawatts of electricity or the equivalent output of ten French nuclear reactors,” or almost 8 percent of France’s electricity capacity.
France previously experimented with solar roads, installing a 0.6 mile test strip of photovoltaic road panels in Normandy, but the project yielded disappointing results as the panels deteriorated quickly under pressure from weather and traffic.
FULL STORY: France Requiring Solar Panels to Cover Parking Lots by 2028

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.

From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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