EPISODE XII 45 years in the solar industry

In this special Podcasthon episode, we have the privilege of welcoming Gérard Moine, a leading figure in the French solar industry and the founder of Solaire Sans Frontières. With over 45 years of experience in the solar energy field, Gérard shares his inspiring journey, the challenges he faced, and the impact his association has had on providing access to clean energy worldwide.

🎧 On the agenda:

• An exceptional journey: Gérard reflects on his early experiences and achievements that shaped his commitment to solar energy.
• Current industry challenges: Discover the challenges shaping today’s solar sector, as well as the key developments that have redefined the industry.
• The impact of Solaire Sans Frontières: This association, founded by Gérard, works to bring clean and sustainable energy to underserved populations.
• Valuable advice for professionals and solar enthusiasts: A rich exchange of insights for anyone looking to start or deepen their expertise in solar energy.

This podcast offers a fascinating dive into the story of a pioneer who transformed his passion for solar energy into a significant humanitarian and ecological project.

🔗 Watch the full episode to learn more about Solaire Sans Frontières and how you can contribute.

If you’re looking to take your involvement further, explore these links:

• Learn more about Solaire Sans Frontières
• Become a volunteer
• Make a donation

We also invite you to explore inspiring initiatives like Solarcoop and Les centrales villageoises du pays mornantais, two local solar projects making a big difference:

• Discover Solarcoop
• Les centrales villageoises du pays mornantais

Tune in and get inspired by this exceptional conversation!

FAQ

Who is Gérard Moine?

An engineer from Supélec, Gérard Moine has worked in photovoltaics since 1979. He started by equipping remote sites in Africa, then ran an engineering firm in France and took part in drafting standards for photovoltaic installations. He wrote the book L'électrification solaire photovoltaïque and founded Solaire Sans Frontières.

What was the first grid-tied solar installation in France?

According to Gérard Moine, it was the one he installed at his home in Mornant, near Lyon, in the early 1990s: 48 panels of 46 W, about 2.2 kWp, at a time when the utility still doubted solar. His inverter ran for 29 years without being replaced, and his panels, tested after about thirty years, had lost around 25% of their power.

What does Solaire Sans Frontières do?

Founded in 2012, the association supports associations and NGOs carrying out community solar projects in energy-poor countries: electrifying schools and clinics, or pumping water for market gardens. It turns needs into a system design, estimates costs and sends volunteers to train local installers, mainly in Madagascar and French-speaking Africa.

Why is training at the heart of these projects?

Because the main challenge is making installations last. Local technicians must be able to maintain them, a budget must be set aside to replace the batteries, often the weak point, and equipment must be replaceable locally. The association favours small systems, from a few hundred watts to a few tens of kilowatts, that can be managed locally.

What is Podcasthon?

An initiative that brings together thousands of podcasters worldwide to highlight charities. Solutions Otonomi took part by dedicating this episode to Solaire Sans Frontières.