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The French Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) is intensifying its efforts to protect consumers in the rapidly growing energy renovation sector, recently issuing significant sanctions to two companies for deceptive practices. These actions signal a broader crackdown fueled by new legislation granting the DGCCRF expanded investigative and punitive capabilities.
The DGCCRF has observed a concerning rise in fraudulent and abusive commercial practices within the energy renovation market, particularly as France pushes forward with its ecological transition goals. This sector, encompassing everything from solar panel installation to thermal upgrades, has become a prime target for unscrupulous actors.
Two Companies Face Penalties for Violating Consumer Regulations
In Gard, the company AMIL ENERGIE, specializing in thermal and air conditioning equipment installation, was fined €49,020 following an investigation triggered by a consumer report submitted through the ResponseConso service. The DGCCRF found that AMIL ENERGIE failed to provide consumers with written confirmation of offers, a violation of articles L. 221-5 and L. 221-16 of the Consumer Code. Furthermore, the company engaged in prohibited cold calling related to energy renovation work, breaching article L. 223-1.
Separately, SAS SYNERGIE TRANSITION, based in Montreuil, received an administrative fine of €30,000. The DGCCRF cited failures to provide pre-contractual information in writing or a durable medium, a lack of information regarding the consumer’s right to opt-out of telephone canvassing, and a failure to obtain explicit consumer consent before initiating services during the withdrawal period. The investigation into SYNERGIE TRANSITION spanned from June 2023 to January 2025 and was conducted by competition, consumer, and fraud prevention agents.
New Legislation Empowers Consumer Protection Agency
These sanctions are occurring against a backdrop of strengthened legal frameworks. A law passed on June 30, 2025, significantly bolstered the DGCCRF’s authority, allowing access to companies’ computer data and increasing potential fines to as much as 0.1% of global turnover. The new law also mandates the publication of sanctions and allows for the suspension of public aid in cases of suspected fraud, creating increased pressure on companies to comply with regulations.
“These measures are designed to both protect consumers and restore confidence in the energy renovation sector,” stated a senior official.
Consumer Rights in Energy Renovations: A Reminder
The DGCCRF emphasizes that consumers are legally entitled to receive comprehensive information before signing any contract for energy work, including details on pricing, service specifications, and sales conditions. A mandatory reflection period is also required, allowing consumers time to review offers, seek additional information, and compare options – effectively prohibiting the signing of contracts at events like fairs.
Consumers also possess a 14-day right of withdrawal from any contract, enabling them to cancel their commitment without penalty or justification. The DGCCRF has already published guidance for individuals considering solar panel installations.
The agency’s increased vigilance and enforcement efforts are crucial for ensuring the sustainable development of the residential solar market and protecting consumers from exploitation. The rise in harmful practices observed in September underscores the need for continued scrutiny and robust consumer protection measures.
