A solar irradiation GIS as decision support tool for the Province of Salta, Argentina

Abstract

The province of Salta is characterized by its solar energy high potential. The use of solar resource would improve living conditions in the area, diversify the energy matrix, promote more sustainable production systems and reduce greenhouse gases emissions. However, there are only a few studies that describe in high spatial resolution the variability of the solar resource in Argentina. Multidimensional tools, that consider the environment and the socio-economic situation, have to be considered for adequate support decision-making, such as solar collector location assessment and photovoltaic potential. In this sense, a deep evaluation of the solar resource is needed first, as solar irradiation is an essential input variable for the design and evaluation of solar application systems. In this paper, we detail the methodology used to elaborate a GIS tool to support decisions related to renewable energy policies and solar technology design. A comparison between global solar irradiation measurements in situ, empirical models, and data provided by Land Surface Analysis Satellite Applications Facility (LSA-SAF), is performed in daily, monthly and annual basis for a seven-year period. This analysis validates the use of this satellite data for the determination of solar irradiation in the region.