Energy dissipation during displacement plowing of snow caused by snow compaction in front of the plow is estimated. Depending on the speed of the plow, a plastic wave will form in front of the plow, thereby compressing the snow before removal. This compression wave dissipates energy provided by the prime mover. An approximate solution of the compression zone was developed to determine the significance of the energy dissipation caused by a plastic wave. The results indicate that energy losses may be substantial during high-speed plow operations. A parametric analysis of parameters involving plow geometry, operating speeds, and snow properties was conducted. Conditions under which energy losses caused by compression may be either reduced or eliminated are clearly identified.