Using Angstrom-Prescott (A-P) Method for Estimating Monthly Global Solar Radiation in Kashan

Abstract

Today’s world is witness to growing use of renewable energy as solutions for reduction of air pollution and provision of a healthier environment. Of all available types of renewable energy, solar energy is perhaps the one that can make the best contribution to this cause. In this article, first the data pertaining to solar radiation in all cities of Kashan region were gathered from Iran’s national meteorological organization. Then, Angstrom-Prescott (A-P) method and MATLAB software were used to calculate the monthly radiation, maximum monthly radiation, constant coefficients, and solar radiation on a flat surface in each specific site. All cities in Kashan region showed a mean annual solar radiation of 8.32 hours a day, and constant coefficients were found to be 0.30 and 0.49. In conclusion, results show that Kashan region has a high solar radiation and thus solar energy generation potential.