Mapping urban ecosystem services using synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) images from satellite data for rural microgrids in India

Abstract

Microgrids, which make use of renewable resources, are a low-cost alternative to conventional methods of electricity generation for villages in India. Correctly identifying the suitable microgrid setup for an area according to the availability of local resources is extremely important to be able to get desired results and maximum profits. In order to make this process easier, we propose an algorithm which uses SAR images of the targeted area, captured over a period of time, to extract data about environmental factors of that area (solar heat, groundwater flow, erosion). This data is used to calculate the energy efficiency of each setup type and compare the economic viability of all, hence suggesting the best option. Thus, the system aims to ameliorate the decision-making process of microgrid setups in underdeveloped areas.