Global Radiation

Global radiation refers to the total solar radiation that strikes a horizontal surface at the Earth's surface. It consists of:

• Direct radiation: The solar rays hit the Earth's surface directly and without scattering.
• Diffuse radiation: The solar rays are scattered in the atmosphere by clouds, water droplets, and dust particles, reaching the Earth's surface from various directions.

Importance for Photovoltaics:

Global radiation is a crucial factor for the performance of photovoltaic systems. The higher the global radiation, the more solar energy can be converted into electrical energy. Factors that influence global radiation include:

• Geographical location: Regions with high solar radiation, such as the tropics, are particularly suitable for the installation of photovoltaic systems.
• Season: Global radiation varies throughout the year, with typically higher values reached during the summer months.
• Weather conditions: Cloud cover, precipitation, and air pollution reduce global radiation.

Measurement of Global Radiation:

Global radiation is measured using devices called pyranometers. These instruments capture the total radiation power per unit area.

Relevant Keywords: Photovoltaics, Solar Radiation, Direct Radiation, Diffuse Radiation, Solar Irradiance, Renewable Energies