Estimation of solar energy based on solar angles: cities of Iraq case study

Abstract

In this paper, a model was designed to estimate the amount of solar energy based on solar radiation angles. The model was applied to five Iraqi cities (Baghdad, Basrah, Nineveh, Dyala, and Anbar). The amount of solar energy reaching the globe's surface is analyzed through its application. Data from NASA was relied upon for implementation and comparison. The main objective of the research is to find a reliable and low-cost method by which to know the amount of solar energy in the study area to promote sustainable energy. The results were compared with the data available from NASA, and a satisfactory agreement was found based on some statistical processes that prove the validity of the proposed model. Through the results, it is possible to rely on the proposed model to predict the amount of solar energy reaching the study area and to implement solar energy projects.