Fuzzy modelling of solar irradiation using air temperature data

Abstract

Fuzzy sets theory is applied to relate global solar irradiation to both the daily average and the daily amplitude of air temperature. In addition to the presentation of a new mapping technique, from the input to the output of the model, an innovative approach for the tuning of the fuzzy algorithm to fit a local meteo-climate is proposed. Since air temperature-based solar radiation models are strongly dependent on the origin location, the adaptive method presented here is designed as a tool for potential users to either increase the application area or to devise more precise local models. A critical assessment of fuzzy model performances and limitations has been conducted. Results reported here demonstrate the potential of modelling solar irradiation using fuzzy sets approach. © Springer-Verlag 2007.