Assessment of spatial and temporal variability in the US solar resource from radiometric measurements and predictions from models using ground-based or satellite data

摘要: Abstract The US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is responding to a growing demand for high-accuracy solar resource data with uncertainties significantly lower than those of existing datasets, such as the Solar Radiation Database (NSRDB). Measurements long-term characterizations require years complete, which an unacceptable timeline rapidly emerging needs renewable energy applications. This contribution seeks methods reducing uncertainty datasets by incorporating lower-uncertainty site-specific ground measurements limited period record. In particular, various techniques are being explored make full use high-resolution radiation available in NSRDB and other sources, extrapolate them over time using locally measured supportive information. interannual variability global direct studied here at sites. NSRDB’s modeled 1998–2005 compared quality-controlled assess performance model, found vary greatly depending on climatic condition. reported results encouraging applications involving concentrators very sunny Large seasonal biases some cloudy Various improvements proposed enhance quality model data. measurement characterize climate consuming expensive operation. Full characterization may several decades measurements—a prospect that not practical industry intent rapid deployment technologies. study demonstrates consistency both space varies widely across United States. mapped illustrate regions high low provide readers quick visual information help decide where how long should be taken particular application. underlying form these maps also from NREL users opportunity more detailed analysis.