Mapping of solar energy potential on Tromsøya using solar analyst in ArcGIS

Abstract

The price of solar energy is declining, and will continue to decline the coming years. This will make it easier for households and companies to utilize solar energy. Because of this, several solar map projects have been established in the recent years. The aim of this study is to create a solar map of Tromsøya, and thoroughly explain the process in doing so. The process chosen for making the map is the same as used by Oslo Solar Map, made by Oslo Housing and Building Department. This involves the ArcGIS based package Solar Analyst Tools, which includes the tools Solar Radiation Graphics, Points Solar Radiation and Area Solar Radiation. These tools are created for modeling solar radiation at landscape scales. Solar Analyst require input of diffusion fraction and transmittivity value, which have an important effect on the results. These values are calculated by combining weather station measurements with calculation in Solar Analyst. One of the crucial issues in the creation of the solar map with this process is excessive computing times. Reducing computing time is investigated with the use of sectoring and investigating how the tools operate and utilizes computing power.