Geo-information modelling of the insolation level within Ivano-Frankivsk region

Abstract

Use of alternative energy sources is one of the promising directions in economic and environmental development of any territory. The purpose of this article is to conduct geo-information analysis of the insolation level within Ivano-Frankivsk region located in the western part of Ukraine. When considering any research territory, it is worth conducting a factorial analysis, which gives the possibility to characterize any advantages and disadvantages of the use of alternative energy. Justification of approaches to the study of territories where alternative energy sources are located or generated is needed to create a unified system for assessment of the potential of the renewable energy sources. Ac- cording to data of the European Space Agency, the insolation level on the research territory varies from 1175 to 1425 kW/hour* sq. m/per day. The method of our research involves the statistical analysis of the insolation level and the factor approach to determining the existing level of insolation Insolation values, meteorological and geomorphological factor characteristics are used to substantiate the new methodology for calculating the existing insolation level. According to the statistical analysis and geo-information analysis, this reasonably permits us to structure months by the level of insolation as well as to calculate the insolation level at a specific point for a certain time of year. Taking into account the angle of inclination above the horizon – the Sun’s declination, the slope exposure – the Sun’s azimuth gives us the possibility to reduce the value of the relief point with its selected factor characteristics and the insolation value to the single coefficients, which permits us to clarify the information as to the insolation level of the selected region. Finally, this is resulted in creation of a map with the isolation levels for Ivano-Frankivsk region taking into account the factor characteristics. The map represents the changing of the insolation level for seven grouped months. It should be noted that insolation level is uneven and it is characterized by the widest gradation within the territories with complex relief. In that event, the optimal angle of solar photovoltaic module inclination equals 49° within Ivano-Frankivsk region. Such structuring clearly reflects the dynamics of changes in the insolation level for an individually selected zone. The scientific novelty of the obtained results is assessment of distribution of the solar energy potential required for further selection of areas to design and locate the solar power stations. The practical significance lies in obtaining the digital cartographic materials which allow assessment of the insolation value at a specific point in the studied region. Structuring of the insolation maps gives the possibility for further development of a unified insolation assessment scheme that is convenient for any user.