A framework for PV yield-based solar energy mapping in mid-low latitude regions with complex topography
Journal
Renewable Energy
Journal Volume
256
Start Page
124512
ISSN
09601481
Date Issued
2026-01-01
Author(s)
Abstract
Accurate solar energy potential mapping is crucial for effective energy planning, particularly in regions with complex terrain and diverse microclimates. This study presents a novel framework that integrates lapse-rate-adjusted ERA5-Land reanalysis data with satellite-derived solar irradiance to construct a regionally calibrated Gridded Typical Meteorological Year (GTMY) dataset at 2 km resolution. Unlike methods using only ground data or coarse reanalysis, this approach applies topographic lapse rate corrections to improve temperature and dew point accuracy by 25.5% and 16.7%, while also assessing wind speed bias. The GTMY is validated across 18 ground stations in a geographically compact yet topographically diverse subtropical island region with coastal plains, and mountainous terrain, providing rigorous testbed representative of many mid- and low-latitude regions worldwide. Results show high spatial and temporal agreement with long-term observations, with an annual average GHI difference of +14 kWh/m2. PV performance modeling based on GTMY inputs yields spatially realistic solar energy yield maps. The demonstrated robustness of this framework under heterogeneous conditions highlights its broad applicability to other regions with complex geophysical characteristics. This research provides a scalable and transferable solution for accurate solar resource assessment and supports adaptive infrastructure planning under both current and future climate conditions.
Subjects
ERA5-land reanalysis
Gridded typical meteorological year
Mid-low latitude region
Photovoltaic system efficiency
Satellite-derived solar irradiance
Solar energy potential
Publisher
Elsevier Ltd
Type
journal article