OLAF

The IPCC has identified photovoltaic (PV) technology as the renewable energy source with the highest potential for greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction at the lowest cost.
However, in snowy regions such as Québec, the power output of PV systems is significantly reduced during winter months due to snow accumulation on solar panels.
What is the actual impact of snow coverage on PV generation?
Which parameters influence thesnow-shedding behavior of panels?
What are the most effective methods to prevent snow accumulation?
And how does snow affect measurement instruments themselves?

These questions remain poorly understood, limiting the widespread deployment of PV systems in snow-prone areas.
This research project addresses these challenges through experimental and modeling approaches aimed at better understanding and predicting snow-related phenomena—both for the design of new PV plants and for the operation and maintenance (O&M) of existing ones.

The project will deliver decision-support tools for PV system design and management, as well as new module technologies specifically developed for snowy climates.
This work will provide a competitive advantage to the project’s partners by strengthening their position in the northern PV market and advancing PV technology development within the province.

Research Leadership

Gwenaëlle Hamon, Professor – Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Administrative Units

Faculty of Engineering
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Interdisciplinary Institute for Technological Innovation (3IT)