Bluesky has developed a new digital solar panel map that grades buildings as to their suitability for solar power generation, including both solar thermal energy (hot water) and solar power generation (photovoltaic).
The map is created using specialist geographic datasets, including LiDAR, and complex algorithms to calculate which buildings are suitable for panels. The results are then transposed onto a mapping database in a form that is easy to read and understand.
Variables taken into account include the height of the building, the roof slope and aspect (the direction it faces). It is also possible to determine the roof type for some buildings. In addition, any obstructions between the roof and the sun are taken into account.
The map helps access detailed and area-specific solar information to help the user decide if their property is suitable for solar panel installation. The product will be further enhanced to enable the calculation of speculative solar potential for a particular roof. This will be important for energy suppliers and householders to determine their return on investment.
