Solar radiation is the key parameter for solar power plants, especially in relation to photovoltaic systems. Precise measurements and accurate radiation data are therefore crucial for optimising energy generation and promoting renewable energies.
Solar radiation is the key parameter for solar power plants. For photovoltaics (PV), the irradiation at the module level plays a decisive role, whereby the rear-side irradiation is also becoming increasingly important for bifacial PV systems. Concentrating solar collectors utilise direct radiation.
RSI calibration station on the Plataforma Solar de Almería (PSA)
RSI devices can be used to measure solar radiation components. The owner of the PSA is the Spanish research centre CIEMAT.
The accuracy of solar radiation data is crucial for measuring the efficiency of solar power plants and analysing resources. Robust and accurately calibrated measuring devices are essential to minimise uncertainties.
METAS systems and sensors
Different cloud camera systems and radiation sensors at the METAS meteorological measuring station on CIEMAT's Plataforma Solar de Almería.
The Institute of Solar Research works mainly on the following topics in the field of solar radiation:
Development, calibration and deployment of robust, low-maintenance measuring devices such as the cloud camera-based PyranoCam system.
Evaluation of modelled radiation data sets and the development of standards and guidelines for the determination of solar radiation.
Operation of the enerMENA meteorological network in cooperation with partners from the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa).
Measurement and modelling of intra-power plant radiation maps with high spatial and temporal resolution.
Modelling and measurement of albedo, backside irradiance on bifacial PV modules, solar spectra and circumsolar radiation.
Research at the Institute of Solar Research focuses on developing innovative measurement methods, increasing the accuracy of radiation data sets and formulating standards. In doing so, the researchers are helping to increase the efficiency of converting solar energy into usable energy. This promotes the use of renewable energy sources and reduces dependence on fossil fuels. The scientists cooperate primarily within the framework of the International Energy Agency (IEA) and its Photovoltaic Power Systems Task 16 as well as SolarPACES Task V.
The PyranoCam measurement method developed at the Institute of Solar Research enables precise measurements of solar radiation data.
Video: PyranoCam
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Video: PyranoCam
The PyranoCam measurement method developed at the Institute of Solar Research enables precise measurements of solar radiation data.
