USING SATELLITE-DERIVED INSOLATION DATA FOR THE SITE/TIME SPECIFIC SIMULATION OF SOLAR-ENERGY SYSTEMS

In this paper, the question of satellite-derived irradiance is addressed on two levels. First, the question of physical accuracy is addressed by comparing satellite-predicted hourly/daily global and direct irradiance with controlled ground measurements in climatically distinct environments. This accuracy is compared to the error made as a function of distance when extrapolating the needed data from the closest ground measurement site. Second, the question of end-use accuracy is addressed by comparing satellite-derived, photovoltaic-utility load-match benchmarks with actual benchmarks for three US electric utilities where ground measurements were available.