Hot Spots Identification for Global Solar Energy Potential: A Future Perspective

Abstract

Solar energy has the potential to satiate the global energy demand alone. However, in order to be benefited the most, the suitable solar hot spots need to be identified. In this paper, hot spots for solar energy in global scale are presented based on the Global horizontal irradiation (GHI), Direct normal irradiation (DNI) and Photovoltaic power potential (PV). In total, 15 hot spots are identified over the global scale. These hot spots are shared by 19 countries in very different regions, from America to all the way to Australia. The exact locations of these hot spots are also presented in order to trace the type of site and the possibility of grid connection. These locations are enriched with DNI as high as 3808 kWh/m2 and DNI potential as maximum as 7.71 GWh/m2. The locations of these sites suggests that, most of them are in challenging zone for solar farming due to the nature of lands. However, in future, these locations might be the prime locations for mass solar energy farming.