Solar Power Potential - Monthly Average

The sun is an incredible source of energy. This dataset visualizes the potential for us our to tap into that energy for human use. What is shown is a location's ability to generate electricity from sunlight using photovoltaic technology, which is called photovoltaic (PV) power potential as an average for each month of the year. This potential depends on many factors. Sunnier locations naturally have a greater potential for power. The climate also matters. It turns out that photovoltaic panels used to collect the energy from the sun tend to perform better in cooler temperatures.

Therefore, the overall climate, including temperature and weather patterns, plays a significant role in determining a location's suitability for PV energy generation. Also, geographical features and the efficiency of the PV technology used are essential. Factors like latitude, terrain, altitude above sea level, and land orientation can influence the amount of sunlight received. Additionally, advancements in PV panel technology can greatly enhance the conversion rate of sunlight to electricity. All these aspects combined determine the optimal planning and installation of solar panels to maximize energy production in a given area.

Something important to note is the apparent missing data close to the poles, specifically beyond the polar circles. These circles represent important geographical boundaries related to the Earth's tilt and orbit around the Sun. They mark the points beyond which, for at least one day each year, there is at least one 24-hour period when the sun does not set (during the summer solstice) and at least one 24-hour period when the sun does not rise (during the winter solstice). Thus the use of solar energy beyond the polar circles becomes less and less practical.

The present dataset was developed based on the Global Solar Atlas, initiated by the World Bank Group and developed with key inputs from Solargis. It presents a detailed analysis of different variables related to the solar power potential worldwide. This atlas offers a thorough examination of solar irradiance and photovoltaic power potential across diverse geographic regions. The present dataset was developed based on this resource.

In essence, the Global Solar Atlas serves as a practical guide for leveraging solar energy wisely, aiding in strategic decision-making for optimal solar panel placement and energy production across different locations.

The dataset contains individual monthly layers created based on ESRI’s Living Atlas layers.They were processed using ArcGIS Pro (for a free alternative use QGis) and exported in the appropriate SOS input format (png file format with a 2:1 aspect ratio using an equatorial cylindrical projection). ArcGIS disclaimer: This map is not intended to be an official, scientific, or legal representation.