GETTING TO KNOW SUN

3TIER Releases U.S. Solar Performance Maps; Maps Dispel Perceptions that Solar Energy is Consistent From Year to Year.
7 October 2010 (World of Photovoltaics)

"3TIER®…released maps illustrating how solar irradiance varied from its normal monthly averages across the U.S. from June through August, 2010. The maps dispel a popular perception that solar energy is relatively consistent from year to year and underscore the need for thorough resource assessments prior to investing in solar projects. Variances in solar irradiance, which are caused by short-term weather anomalies, have a significant impact on the long-term economic viability of both distributed and utility-scale solar power development…

"…[for June:] The North Atlantic High delivered unusually high solar irradiance to the eastern seaboard and southeastern states – it was the hottest June on record in Delaware, New Jersey and North Carolina. Meanwhile, an upper-level trough over the northwestern quarter of the country depressed irradiance in the Pacific Northwest and upper Midwest. Record-breaking precipitation was recorded in Michigan and near record-breaking rainfall was experienced in Iowa, Illinois and Nebraska."

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"…[for July:] As the North Atlantic High continued to drive high irradiance values along the East Coast, Hurricane Alex and Tropical Storm Bonnie reduced irradiance and temperatures in Texas and the Midwest. Coastal California had a persistent marine layer all month resulting in below average irradiance."

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"…[for August:] Solar irradiance and temperatures remained above average in much of the country. However, in the Southeast higher temperatures combined with higher than average atmospheric water vapor content produced unusually high cloudiness and rainfall, pushing irradiance below its monthly mean. Likewise, parts of Montana experienced above average rainfall and cloudiness, while solar irradiance along the California Coast remained below normal due to persistent morning fog…"

[Kenneth Westrick, founder/CEO, 3TIER:] “Solar power development in the U.S. is driven more by government incentives than production potential right now…However, as the industry matures and policy becomes more performance-oriented, projects will be more rigorously scrutinized for their long-term energy production potential. 3TIER offers a full suite of products that enable that today.”