China’s Groundbreaking Solar Resource Map Unveils Massive PV Potential
China is taking significant strides towards achieving carbon neutrality with its latest groundbreaking research on solar resource assessment. A collaboration between the Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IAP/CAS), Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT), and the National Satellite Meteorological Center (MSMC) of China Meteorological Administration has resulted in the unveiling of a detailed solar resource map, showcasing China’s massive potential for photovoltaic (PV) energy.
This groundbreaking research utilizes data from the Advanced Geostationary Radiation Imager onboard the Fengyun-4A (FY-4A) satellite, along with a random forest model and a physical model chain that converts irradiance to PV power. The FY-4A satellite, the first of its kind in China’s latest generation of geostationary satellites, offers high-resolution capabilities that significantly enhance solar resourcing and forecasting. With a wider field-of-view, this satellite improves the reliability of solar radiation measurements over China.
The team’s research, led by Professor Xia Xiang’ao and Professor Yang Dazhi, goes beyond conventional global horizontal irradiance (GHI) approaches. It extends to effective irradiance, an essential factor for precise solar resource assessment specifically for PV applications. This extension is considered a defining characteristic of the latest energy-meteorology-style of solar resource assessment, setting it apart from other studies in the field.
What truly sets this research apart is the integration of an advanced workflow known as the physical model chain. By employing a cascade of energy meteorology models, the team is able to achieve remarkably accurate estimates of in-plane irradiance. This innovative approach holds profound implications for the future of solar resource assessment, promising to revolutionize the way we understand and utilize solar energy.
The resulting solar PV resource map from this collaborative research provides invaluable insights for stakeholders involved in designing, planning, and operating solar energy systems. Decision-makers can now make informed choices that contribute to more sustainable and greener energy solutions. With China’s commitment to carbon neutrality, the alignment of advanced technology and pioneering research demonstrated by the FY-4A satellite and AI model sets a new standard for solar resource mapping, inspiring positive change in the global pursuit of renewable energy.
The research findings, published in the journal Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, highlight the immense potential of China’s solar energy landscape. Dr. Shi Hongrong from IAP/CAS, the first author of the paper, played a pivotal role in this research endeavor.
As the world shifts towards a more sustainable future, the collaboration between academia, meteorological institutions, and technological advancements proves to be a driving force in unlocking the massive PV potential in China. With their efforts, China is charting the path towards a greener and more energy-efficient future.
