A simplified but accurate spectral solar irradiance model

Summary

¶The paper deals with the computation of solar energy available in a specific location. First, a new formula describing the relation between global solar irradiation and the duration of bright sunshine is established. The analysis of its use shows that global solar clear sky irradiance models are essential tools for daily computation of global irradiation. An integrated spectral atmospheric transmittance model is presented, it can be used to compute beam and diffuse clear sky irradiance for all applications where broadband solar energy input is needed. Since it is desirable to use simplified estimation methods for many applications, a parametric global solar irradiance model, derived from the spectral model, is also presented. This model needs only surface meteorological data as input. The influence of the averaging method used for the input parameters on the model accuracy is evaluated. Comparison of model results with the measurements shows an acceptable level of accuracy with the new model. Finally, an application of daily global solar energy computation is presented.