Remote sensing of solar surface radiation – a reflection of concepts, applications and input data based on experience with the effective cloud albedo

Abstract

Abstract. Accurate solar surface irradiance (SSI) data are a prerequisite for efficient planning and operation of solar energy systems. Respective data are also essential for climate monitoring and analysis. Satellite-based SSI has grown in importance over the last few decades. However, a retrieval method is needed to relate the measured radiances at the satellite to the solar surface irradiance. In a widespread classical approach, these radiances are used directly to derive the effective cloud albedo (CAL) as basis for the estimation of the solar surface irradiance. This approach was already introduced and discussed in the early 1980s. Various approaches are briefly discussed and analysed, including an overview of open questions and opportunities for improvement. Special emphasis is placed on the reflection of fundamental physical laws and atmospheric measurement techniques. In addition, atmospheric input data and key applications are briefly discussed. It is concluded that the well-established observation-based CAL approach is still an excellent choice for the retrieval of the cloud transmission. The coupling with lookup-table-based clear-sky models enables the estimation of solar surface irradiance with high accuracy and homogeneity. This could explain why, despite its age, the direct CAL approach is still used by key players in energy meteorology and the climate community. For the clear-sky input data, it is recommended to use ECMWF forecast and reanalysis data.