High resolution grid of potential incoming solar radiation for Serbia

Abstract

Solar radiation is a key driving force for many natural processes. At the Earth?s surface solar radiation is the result of complex interactions between the atmosphere and Earth?s surface. Our study highlights the development and evaluation of a data base of potential solar radiation that is based on a digital elevation model (DEM) with a resolution of 90 m over Serbia. The main aim of this paper is to map solar radiation in Serbia using DEM. This is so far the finest resolution being applied and presented using DEM. The final results of the potential direct, diffuse and total solar radiation as well as duration of insolation databases of Serbia are portrayed as thematic maps that can be communicated and shared easily through the cartographic web map-based service.