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Solar radiation as a sole source of energy for photovoltaics in Las Vegas, Nevada, for July and December
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1981
[PDF-972.99 KB]
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Description:Hourly global radiation data collection by the National Weather Service in Las Vegas, Nevada, is analyzed. Only the data for July and December 1977 and 1978 are used. Global radiation data represent the total direct solar radiation plus diffuse sky radiation received by a horizontal surface. The median, maximum, and minimum radiation days for both July and December are identified. In addition, the diurnal variation in the cumulative frequency distribution of the hourly global radiation data is graphed for both months. Based on photovoltaics, these charts are used to evaluate the expected solar energy supply for a given area of exposure. Example calculations are given to demonstrate how to find the total area of solar cells needed to supply the total energy demands of an all-electric home. Calculations show that if the solar cells are at least 20% efficient, enough energy is usually available to meet total household demands in July if at least 75 to 80 m of area are available with an unobstructed view of the sun. Twice as much area is needed for a 10% efficiency rating. Analysis of the data suggests that solar energy is a restricted resource in December.
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Content Notes:Darryl Randerson.
Includes bibliographical references (page 14).
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Rights Information:Public Domain
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