Comprehensive solar energy resource characterisation for an intricate Indian province

ABSTRACT

The interception of solar radiation by earth’s surfaces is a function of their geometry and a determinant of their microclimatic interaction. Thus the design of a solar energy conversion system requires precise knowledge regarding the availability of solar irradiation and various solar geometrical parameters at the location of interest. Both weather conditions and geography of the location have an influence on solar radiation pattern and it is crucial to determine the patterns of solar radiation throughout the year as solar technologies heavily rely on solar climate characteristics. The present work evaluates the terrestrial solar energy resource characterisation for intricate north-east Indian province Tripura where solar resource is considered to be a promising alternative option to supply energy in remote areas. Both direct and indirect measured solar radiation data have been considered in the study for evaluation of solar geometrical factors and correlations.

KEYWORDS:

• Solar energy
• solar geometry
• solar radiation
• clearness index

Acknowledgement

Authors acknowledge their appreciation to National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE), Government of India for creating infrastructure support for solar energy resource assessment.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.