Global and diffuse solar radiation in Doha (Qatar)

Abstract

Measurement of global solar radiation on a horizontal surface, for 8 years in Doha, are used to examine some of the methods of prediction of global solar radiation. Relation (3) shows a good degree of accuracy, provided the parameter K is appropriately adjusted. Equation (4) shows, generally, larger values than the actual values. The abundance of solar energy in Doha is evident from the global solar radiation data. he diffuse component of solar radiation is predicted by two methods which show almost similar results. These results are compared with the measured values of diffuse solar radiation in Dhahran, which is of similar climate, to show that the methods of prediction are of reasonable values. Relation between the diffuse solar radiation as a fraction of the global H d H and the clearliness index H Hino is established and compared with those obtained elsewhere, in order to justify their ise since direct measurements are not available. The relation shows a latitude dependency.