New methodology for solar irradiance calculation using Meteosat satellite imagery

Abstract

Solar Resource assessment is necessary for concentrated solar power plants development, it is important to choose a suitable location, to ensure the project viability, to improve operation and maintenance procedures and to optimise the energy production. Satellite imagery is a good choice to elaborate this kind of studies due to its historical database that allows to compare many locations and determine reliable meteorological characteristics. The new methodology developed to calculate solar irradiance using MSG imagery enable users to analyse the plant production with high accuracy, MAE 32% lower than previous works, and easily comprehensible presentation of the results.Solar Resource assessment is necessary for concentrated solar power plants development, it is important to choose a suitable location, to ensure the project viability, to improve operation and maintenance procedures and to optimise the energy production. Satellite imagery is a good choice to elaborate this kind of studies due to its historical database that allows to compare many locations and determine reliable meteorological characteristics. The new methodology developed to calculate solar irradiance using MSG imagery enable users to analyse the plant production with high accuracy, MAE 32% lower than previous works, and easily comprehensible presentation of the results.