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An immersive week to master solar energy: 3 questions to Philippe Blanc

Ecological transition Education Research Interview
Published on 28 November 2024
Every year, the Solar Winter School (SWS) offers a week-long intensive training course dedicated to the challenges of solar energy. Organized by the SciDoSol chair at Mines Paris – PSL, this third edition will take place from March 10 to 14, 2025 on the Pierre Laffitte campus in Sophia Antipolis. The SWS offers a varied program including theoretical courses, practical work and a master class in Python for solar resource analysis and forecasting. More than just a training course, the Solar Winter School is also an opportunity to meet experts and build an international network of professionals committed to the energy transition. Professor Philippe Blanc, professor at the Observation Impacts Énergie (OIE) center at Mines Paris – PSL and holder of the SciDoSol chair with Dr Yves-Marie Saint-Drenan, tells us more about this SWS.

What are the main objectives of the Solar Winter School, and why is this training essential for future solar energy experts in a context of energy transition?

The SWS offers a comprehensive and specialized training program that enables future solar energy experts to acquire the knowledge and skills they need for their future profession, including the basics of solar modeling, in situ pyranometric measurements (surveys carried out in the field to measure the intensity of solar radiation using a pyranometer in order to assess the amount of solar energy available at that location), solar resource assessment and forecasting based on satellite observation of the Earth, and numerical meteorology and chemistry-transport models. This knowledge will enable participants to contribute to the growth of the solar energy sector, with a view to meeting the challenges of the energy transition. Sessions also include discussions on energy policy and environmental impact assessment, enabling participants to understand the global challenges facing the sector.

The SWS offers practical approaches with workshops and a master class on solar forecasting. How do these activities enhance participants’ learning?

The workshops enable participants to better understand theoretical principles and develop practical skills. Organized in the form of teamwork, they encourage collaboration and the sharing of knowledge between participants. The various workshops on offer reinforce learning by offering a practical, interactive approach, enabling them to develop concrete skills and acquire specialist knowledge.

What networking and professional exchange opportunities does the SWS offer, both in France and internationally, and what advice would you give to those wishing to take part?

The SWS offers exceptional opportunities for networking in the solar scientific and industrial communities, and for professional exchange, both in France and internationally. Participants have the opportunity to collaborate with French and international players specializing in the field of solar energy, enabling them to acquire concrete knowledge and develop their skills.

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