Understanding Photovoltaic Geographical Information System for Renewable Energy
With the environmental degradation caused by the rapidly changing climate, it has become essential for us to switch to eco-friendly and renewable sources of energy. Solar energy is one of the most promising sources of renewable energy, and photovoltaic technology is one of the most popular methods of capturing solar energy. However, efficient implementation of photovoltaic systems requires proper planning and management, which can be achieved through the use of Photovoltaic Geographical Information System (PVGIS).
What is Photovoltaic Geographical Information System?
PVGIS is an application that facilitates the planning, management, and evaluation of photovoltaic systems. It provides comprehensive information on the potential of solar energy at a specific location, such as the amount of energy a photovoltaic system can produce, the orientation and tilt of solar panels, and the effect of shading by nearby buildings, trees, and other structures. PVGIS also offers data such as the monthly average temperature, precipitation, and other meteorological parameters that can affect the performance of photovoltaic systems.
Why is Photovoltaic Geographical Information System Important?
PVGIS is essential for the site selection, planning, and management of photovoltaic systems. It provides accurate and reliable information required for system design, installation, and maintenance. Besides, it enables the identification of suitable locations for the installation of photovoltaic systems, considering the available solar energy, terrain, climate, and shading factors.
The PVGIS platform can also help optimize the performance of photovoltaic systems by providing data on the expected energy yield and identifying potential issues that may affect the output. This information can be used in the design of the system to ensure maximum energy production and reduce the risk of system failure.
How PVGIS Works
PVGIS is a web-based application that uses a comprehensive database of meteorological station data, solar radiation databases, and digital elevation models to generate comprehensive solar radiation maps. The application takes into consideration the movement of the sun, climate conditions, and other physical factors.
PVGIS analyzes this data against the characteristics of the available land and structures to determine the optimal site for installing photovoltaic systems. It provides a detailed report on the potential energy production, the expected system performance, and the expected return on investment.
Case Studies
Several successful installations of photovoltaic systems using PVGIS are evident across the globe. For instance, in 2015, the city of Melbourne, Australia, used PVGIS to identify over 20 suitable locations for installing photovoltaic systems, including schools, recreational centers, and administration buildings. The installations reduced annual carbon emissions by over 26,000 tons and are expected to save the city almost AUD 10 million in electricity bills in 25 years.
Another example is the Photovoltaic Geographical Information System (PVGIS) project in Europe, which has been operational since 2001. The project seeks to enable the growth of photovoltaic electricity by providing data on solar energy potential across Europe. Countries such as Italy, Germany, and France have successfully used this data to increase their photovoltaic capacity.
Conclusion
Photovoltaic Geographical Information System is an essential tool for the successful implementation of photovoltaic systems. It provides accurate and reliable data on solar radiation, climate, and other physical factors that are crucial to the efficient design, installation, and maintenance of photovoltaic systems. The application offers valuable insights on the optimal location for installing photovoltaic systems and helps optimize their performance, increasing their return on investment. With more countries committing to renewable energy, PVGIS is poised to play a significant role in meeting the growing demand for clean energy across the globe.
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