André Mermoud, Author of the PVsyst software and founder, Chief Executive Officer


Andr portrait1

Training

Graduate of the University of Geneva in 1971, André Mermoud obtained his PHD in particle physics in 1977, through research at CERN.

His experiences in solar energy

In 1978, he started with detailed studies of solar thermal systems, and innovative energy systems in buildings, in the University of Geneva and in several engineering  companies.

In 1992, André Mermoud began developing the PVsyst software for the study and simulation of photovoltaic systems. He has developed a tool for the 3D Shading constructions, the simulation of stand-alone PV systems, and then pumping PV systems (including research about modeling of batteries and pumps). He also conducted research for a specific model of PV modules of any available technologies.

In 1996, he participated in the development of a training course (PACER program of the Swiss Confederation) about photovoltaic installations for engineers. Since 2007, he regularly provides training in photovoltaic technology for engineers, within the framework of INES (National Institute of Solar Energy, France).

Today activities

At the same time, he actively continues the development of the PVsyst software, in order to incorporate the evolving needs of professionals and innovations in the PV industry. He provides a technical hotline for users, and maintenance of the component databases, closely related to the results of modeling.

 

 

Michel Villoz, Founder of PVsyst SA, Chief Financial Officer


Michel portraitTraining

Michel Villoz graduated in 1977 from EPFL (Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne) with a diploma in electrical engineering. In 1980, he joined the world of solar energy to coordinate the technology transfer to Switzerland of a solar cells production line from Solarex (USA). He then managed the production of cells and participated to the design of the Pasan sun simulators.

Other experiences in solar energy,

In 1985, Michel Villoz founded Dynatex SA to produce solar components and systems. From 1999 to 2004, he was a Swiss expert at the IEA (International Energy Agency) in the program PVPS. From 2001 to 2003, he participated to the European project INVERSTIRE to establish the specifications of the best storage technology for renewable energies.

Publications

Michel Villoz is the author with Anne Labouret of « Solar Photovoltaics » published by the IET (Institute of Engineering and Technology, Stevenage, UK) and also of « Construire Ecolo » presenting the main techniques of low energy houses and the field of renewable energies (puplished by  Dunod in Paris).

Today activities

Mains works of Michel Villoz are the council and expertise in photovoltaic engineering. He is also training engineers on PV at the INES (National Institute of Solar Energy, in le Bourget du Lac, France). He offers on-demand specialized training in photovoltaic in Europe and Africa.