Geographic information system-based prediction of solar power plant production using deep neural networks

Abstract

The study aims to predict solar energy generation to ensure the successful operation of solar power plants. This objective is crucial in light of the increasing energy demand, global warming concerns, and greenhouse gas emissions. To achieve this, the study employs multiple linear regression and feature selection techniques to calculate energy generation. Additionally, long short-term memory (LSTM) is used to predict energy generation levels based on climate conditions. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of energy generation is analyzed using inverse distance weighting. The results of the study reveal that temperature, solar radiation, relative humidity, wind speed, wind direction, and vapor pressure deficit are the most significant parameters for predicting energy generation. The LSTM method proves to be highly accurate in predicting fluctuating energy generation patterns. Notably, the southern regions of the study area exhibit a greater potential for energy generation compared to the northern regions. Approximately 30% of the region generates over 1400 kWh, with the southern areas, characterized by hot and dry climates, producing around 1500 kWh, while the northern regions, with cold and humid climates, generate approximately 1100 kWh.