Planning and Management of Solar Power from Space

The book "Planning and Management of Solar Power from Space" presents a holistic solar energy management and planning solution using Earth observation data and methodologies, offering an alternative view for precise electricity production and handling. It showcases real implementations and benefits of Earth observation technology in the solar sector, providing professionals with an approach for continuously monitoring solar energy production and atmospheric parameter forecasts in high spatial and temporal resolution.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 212 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2023
Publisher: Elsevier Science Publishing Co Inc

The utilization of Earth observation data and methodologies in the planning and management of solar power from space presents a groundbreaking approach to holistic solar energy management and planning. This innovative solution offers an alternative perspective for precise electricity production and handling, providing a comprehensive framework for solar sector professionals. By leveraging examples of its implementation by transmission and distribution system operators and solar power plants utilizing both Photovoltaic (PV) and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) systems, this book showcases the real-world benefits and practical applications of Earth observation technology. It serves as a valuable resource for solar sector professionals seeking to continuously monitor solar energy production and atmospheric parameter forecasts with high spatial and temporal resolution. By guiding readers in tracking solar energy availability in relation to time horizons and forecasting, this book addresses potential challenges in research and development, as it enables accurate solar energy estimations and forecasts that are crucial for energy production control and grid stability.

The book's holistic approach encompasses various aspects of solar energy management, including resource assessment, site selection, system design, operation and maintenance, and financial analysis. It employs advanced Earth observation data, such as satellite imagery, meteorological measurements, and ground-based sensors, to provide accurate and timely information about solar energy resources and their dynamics. This data is then used to optimize the design and performance of solar power systems, enabling them to maximize their energy output and reduce operational costs.

One of the key advantages of using Earth observation data in solar power planning is its ability to provide real-time monitoring and forecasting of solar energy availability. By analyzing satellite imagery and meteorological data, solar power plants can predict the amount of sunlight that will be available at a specific location and time, allowing them to adjust their operations accordingly. This real-time monitoring capability is particularly valuable in areas with variable weather conditions or in regions where solar energy is intermittent, such as cloudy or rainy days.

Furthermore, Earth observation data can help optimize the placement and orientation of solar power systems. By analyzing satellite imagery and meteorological data, solar power plant operators can identify the most suitable locations for solar panels and optimize their orientation to maximize solar energy capture. This can lead to significant increases in energy production and reduce the need for additional land or infrastructure.

Another advantage of using Earth observation data in solar power planning is its ability to support decision-making processes. By providing accurate and timely information about solar energy resources and their dynamics, solar power plant operators can make informed decisions about the operation and maintenance of their systems. This can include scheduling maintenance activities, optimizing energy production, and identifying potential areas for improvement.

In addition to its benefits in solar power planning, Earth observation data can also be used to support research and development in the solar sector. By analyzing historical data and monitoring current trends, researchers can gain insights into the behavior of solar energy resources and develop new technologies and strategies to improve their efficiency and sustainability. This can include the development of more advanced solar panel technologies, the optimization of energy storage systems, and the development of more efficient energy management systems.

Overall, the use of Earth observation data and methodologies in the planning and management of solar power from space presents a transformative approach to holistic solar energy management and planning. By leveraging advanced Earth observation data and methodologies, solar sector professionals can optimize the design and performance of solar power systems, increase energy production, reduce operational costs, and support research and development in the solar sector. As the demand for clean and renewable energy continues to grow, the use of Earth observation data in solar power planning will become increasingly important in ensuring a sustainable and reliable energy future.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780128233900