A fast and effective approach to modelling solar energy potential in complex shading environments

A fast and effective model for the computation of solar energy potential in complex shading environments is presented. Accurate calculation and identification of solar energy potential profiles is demonstrated over large areas. Calculation time is exceptionally fast, even on an average specification PC (typically under 1 min per 1 km2). Problems with commonly used low-resolution sky domes that can lead to irradiance calculation errors of ~5% are identified. Ideal placements are easily visually identified from resultant irradiance/irradiation profile images. Image processing techniques for spatially distributed optimization problems are described and an example of energy value optimization is presented by means of individual dwelling demand separation & comparison.