Julien Gambade optimizes solar thermal systems for Northwestern Europe

Julien Gambade, a researcher at the National Polytechnic Institute of Brittany, has developed solar thermal solutions tailored to the cold climates of Northwestern Europe, achieving a solar potential of 1200 kWh/m²/year and an efficiency of 75% for the collectors. These results, presented in 2023, offer concrete prospects for reducing energy costs and carbon emissions in the region.

Julien Gambade's thesis, conducted at IRDL, addresses the challenge of the energy transition in Europe, particularly in the Northwest, where renewable energies struggle to compete with fossil fuels. Solar thermal systems present a viable alternative to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and combat climate change, a pressing issue in this region.

Gambade's research reveals a solar potential of 1200 kWh/m²/year and collector efficiency reaching 75% under experimental conditions. These results demonstrate that optimizing solar energy can meet the growing energy needs of Northwestern countries, such as Belgium and the Netherlands, where harsh winters increase energy costs.

The implications of this research are significant for decision-makers and investors. Optimizing solar thermal systems could reduce energy bills and carbon emissions. It is recommended to support projects integrating these solutions tailored to local conditions to capitalize on the growing renewable energy market.

« « With a solar potential of 1200 kWh/m²/year and an efficiency of 75%, our results show that solar energy can truly contribute to the energy transition in Northwestern Europe, » says Julien Gambade. »

« « Julien Gambade's work paves the way for sustainable energy solutions, essential for decision-makers looking to reduce costs and emissions, » emphasizes the Lektaris team. »