Solar Energy Potential
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Provided by: Resource Watch|Published on: April 27, 2021
Data, Graphs, and MapsScientist Reviewed
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Scientist Reviewed This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This interactive world map displays the average daily global horizontal irradiation and the average daily photovoltaic power potential.
- These factors are used to evaluate the potential effectiveness of solar energy in an area.
Subjects: Earth and Space Sciences, Geography
Authors: Resource Watch
Region: Global, New Jersey
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This map makes it easy for students to visually identify the areas that are best for producing electricity from solar energy.
- The map is simple and easy to navigate.
Prerequisites
- The two factors, horizontal irradiance and photovoltaic power potential, are displayed on different layers.
- The map can be zoomed in to focus on a specific region.
Differentiation & Implementation
- Students could use this map to determine the solar energy potential in their region or identify regions better suited for solar energy.
- Students could also use this map to make a plan for how we can best utilize land to maximize solar energy.
- Other interactive maps related to solar power include the Hourly Electric Grid Monitor, the Solar Power Generation map, and Share of Primary Energy from Solar map.
- Other resources that could be helpful in teaching solar energy include the article How Renewables Work: A Practical Guide to Solar, Wind, and Geothermal, the video Renewable Energy 101, and the virtual field trip activity Powering the Planet: Renewable Energy.
This map details the solar energy potential across the globe, visualizing where we can produce the most solar energy. This resource is recommended for teaching.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
