Solar Energy Meteorology

Solar energy is subject to strong temporal and spatial fluctuations, influenced by the weather, the position of the sun and environmental conditions. In the "Solar Energy Meteorology" Research Topic we develop models to describe and predict the fluctuating energy supply.   

PV forecasting systems play an important role in solar power trading, grid management and power plant deployment planning. Another important aspect is the cost-efficient use of energy management options such as storage, balancing energy and controllable loads. With precise solar forecasts, these options can be used optimally to integrate solar energy cost-efficiently into our energy system.   

Our experts integrate various models and input data to reliably predict solar output on temporal and spatial scales ranging from a few minutes and meters to several days and many kilometers. These include measured values of solar irradiation and PV output, data from cloud cameras, satellite-based information and numerical forecasts. We work closely with our industry partners to optimize and further develop forecasts for various applications. 

• Solar Irradiation Forecasting with Satellite Data
• Short-term Yield Forecasting of PV Power with Cloud Cameras
• PV Power Forecasting for Solar System Integration