Solar Potential Analysis

Solar Potential Analysis evaluates how much electrical energy rooftop or ground-mounted photovoltaic systems could generate at specific locations by modeling solar irradiance, roof area, tilt, orientation, shading from adjacent structures and vegetation, and local climate conditions. High-resolution Digital Surface Models derived from LiDARLiDARLight Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) is a remote sensing technology that measures distances using laser pulses to crea... provide the 3D building and terrain data needed to calculate shadow patterns throughout the year. GISGISGeographic Information Systems (GIS) enable users to analyze and visualize spatial data to uncover patterns, relation...-based solar mapping tools like Google Project Sunroof and Mapdwell Solar System combine DSM data with solar radiation models to estimate annual kilowatt-hour production for every rooftop in a city. Analysis accounts for panel efficiency, inverter losses, and degradation rates to produce realistic generation estimates. Economic modeling layers in electricity rates, net metering policies, and incentive programs to calculate payback periods and return on investment. Applications include municipal solar energy plans that set installation targets, utility programs that identify grid-friendly locations for distributed generation, and real estate platforms that display solar potential as a property feature. Community solar programs use GIS to identify suitable sites for shared installations that serve residents who cannot install rooftop panels. Climate action plans incorporate solar potential assessments to quantify renewable energy capacity and chart pathways to emissions reduction goals.