Scientists investigate fluctuations of solar irradiance in time and space over the Asia Pacific region to help guide plans for solar power plants.
Scientists investigate fluctuations of solar irradiance in time and space over the Asia Pacific region to help guide plans for solar power plants.
Fluctuations in solar radiation are a problem for solar power plants as they cause problems in the power grid and other reliability issues. In a recent study, scientists from Japan and Indonesia aimed to deepen our understanding of variations in solar irradiance in time and space over the Asia Pacific region by analyzing satellite data. Their findings provide valuable insights that could help us optimize the position of future solar power plants.
Amidst the ongoing energy crisis and under the threat of climate change, exploiting renewable energy sources has quickly become a global necessity. Though our options are varied, solar energy seems to be our best bet—experts estimate that it may become our main energy source well before the turn of the century.
Read more at Chiba University
Image: These maps display spatial heterogeneity in solar irradiance and the impact of the umbrella effect on the Asia Pacific region during different times of the year. Using these data, the optimal location of solar power plants can be derived in terms of obtaining a stable and reliable power supply; these regions should have both low heterogeneity and a low umbrella effect index. (Credit: Kalingga Titon Nur Ihsan from Chiba University and Institut Teknologi Bandung)
