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The Bright Future of Solar Power in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Country or Region Overview
Country or Region: Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Capital: Saint-Pierre
Total Population: Approximately 6,000 (as of 2025)
Geographical Location: Saint Pierre and Miquelon is a French overseas collectivity located in the North Atlantic Ocean, just off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada. It is composed of several islands, with Saint Pierre and Miquelon-Langlade being the largest and only inhabited ones. Though situated in a northern latitude, the islands are exploring solar energy as part of France’s broader clean energy transition.
Solar resource map copyright at 2021 Solargis. Licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution license (CC BY-SA 4.0). This is a solar resource map from Solargis. For a higher resolution map, please visit and download.
Table of Contents
Solar Irradiation Data in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Due to its high-latitude maritime location, Saint Pierre and Miquelon receives moderate levels of solar irradiation, especially during the late spring to early autumn months. While sunlight hours are lower in winter, there is good solar potential during the warmer seasons.
Key Solar Irradiation Data:
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Annual Solar Irradiation: Approximately 2.8 to 3.5 kWh/m²/day
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Best Production Season: April to September, with extended daylight hours
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Total Sunshine Hours: Around 1,800 to 2,100 hours/year
Solar energy can complement other power sources and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, especially during peak daylight months.
If you need to learn more solar power potential in Saint Pierre and Miquelon, please feel free to contact Solarvance for more details.
Temperature Factors in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
The islands experience cold winters and mild summers, with average temperatures ranging from -5°C in January to 20°C in August. These cooler temperatures are actually favorable for solar panel performance, as PV efficiency improves in lower temperatures.
Proper system design must take into account snow loads, ice buildup, and freezing temperatures, requiring rugged, winter-rated components and mounts.
Energy Demand and Grid Situation in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Electricity in Saint Pierre and Miquelon is supplied by a local branch of Électricité de France (EDF). The grid is small and diesel-dependent, resulting in high operating costs and environmental impact.
Energy demand is relatively low due to the small population, but there is a strong incentive to adopt renewables to improve energy security, reduce emissions, and decrease dependency on fossil fuel imports.
Preferred System Type in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Because of the geographic and climatic context, several system types are recommended:
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Grid-Connected Systems: Ideal for residences and public buildings during high-sun months
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Hybrid Systems with Battery Storage: Recommended to manage seasonal variability and ensure continuous supply
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Off-Grid Systems: Suitable for cabins, summer homes, or isolated facilities not connected to the central grid
Systems should be paired with efficient battery banks to store excess power and extend system usability during darker months.
Dust and Sand Factor in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Dust is not a major concern in Saint Pierre and Miquelon due to frequent rain, snow, and cool weather. However, occasional salt particles and organic debris (such as leaves or snow residue) can still accumulate on panels.
Routine seasonal cleaning and inspection before and after winter is sufficient to maintain system performance.
Humidity and Rainfall (Humidity Factor) in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
The region experiences high humidity, particularly in the fall and winter months, with an annual average around 80%. Rain, snow, and fog are frequent, especially from October through March.
Solar systems must use sealed, weather-resistant enclosures (IP66+), corrosion-proof cables, and UV- and moisture-resistant components. Raised mounting structures should also allow for effective drainage and snow shedding.
Ocean (Salt Corrosion Factor) in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
As a coastal island territory, salt-laden winds are present year-round, increasing the risk of corrosion for solar installations near the shore. Since most of the land is close to the sea, all systems should be considered at risk.
To combat corrosion:
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Use marine-grade aluminum or galvanized steel racking
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Apply anti-corrosion coatings
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Use stainless steel hardware and weather-sealed electrical connectors
Regular maintenance is key to prolonging system life in this salty environment.
Government Policies and Solar Incentives in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
As a French territory, Saint Pierre and Miquelon is governed by France’s national energy and climate legislation, including access to:
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French and EU renewable energy incentives
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Tax breaks and subsidies for clean energy installations
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Support for decentralized microgrid development and pilot programs for islands
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Public funding for energy transition and infrastructure modernization
EDF is also working on hybrid renewable energy models that integrate solar with storage and other clean technologies in overseas territories.
ROI on Solar Systems in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
While the solar yield is lower compared to tropical regions, the high cost of diesel-generated electricity significantly improves ROI.
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ROI Period: Estimated at 6 to 8 years for grid-tied systems with battery
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Savings: Long-term reduction in fossil fuel consumption and utility costs
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Value: Solar enhances energy independence and aligns with France’s carbon neutrality goals
Systems become even more effective when designed to operate in synergy with smart batteries and high-efficiency appliances.
Conclusion on Solar Power in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Saint Pierre and Miquelon may not be the sunniest region, but its energy challenges make solar a strategic and environmentally responsible solution. With supportive French policy, rising fuel costs, and long summer days, solar installations—especially hybrid and off-grid systems—can play an essential role in decarbonizing the territory.
At Solarvance, we specialize in cold-climate, corrosion-resistant solar systems that are ideal for northern maritime environments like Saint Pierre and Miquelon. Our solutions offer long-term durability, energy resilience, and environmental impact reduction.
Choose Solarvance for Your Solar System
Contact us today to explore customized solar solutions for your needs, whether you’re interested in grid-connected, off-grid, or hybrid solar systems. Our team at Solarvance is here to guide you through every step of the process, from system design to installation and maintenance.
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