Solar Energy Potential in Various Regions of Iran
(Including an Overview of 10 Promising Locations for Solar Power Plant Development Based on Solar Irradiance Levels)
Abstract:
Due to its geographical location and favorable climatic conditions, Iran is considered one of the countries with high potential in the field of solar energy. This article explores the solar irradiance potential across different regions of the country. Studies indicate that many parts of Iran—especially in the central and southern regions—benefit from high solar irradiance, making them ideal for solar energy production. Given this significant potential, Iran could meet a substantial portion of its energy demand through solar power plants.
Introduction:
In recent years, solar energy has emerged as one of the primary and most sustainable renewable energy sources across the globe. This form of energy is particularly advantageous in regions with high solar irradiance, offering immense potential for electricity generation and meeting energy needs. Iran, with more than 300 sunny days per year and high solar exposure, provides ideal conditions for harnessing solar energy.
Iran’s Solar Irradiance Potential:
Located within the Earth’s solar belt, Iran receives considerable solar radiation. The average daily solar irradiance exceeds 5 kWh/m²/day in most parts of the country, with some areas reaching over 6 kWh/m²/day. According to data from the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Organization of Iran (SATBA), central, eastern, and southern regions show the highest irradiance potential—suitable for the deployment of solar power plants. Conversely, northern regions experience lower solar exposure due to high humidity and frequent rainfall.
Solar Irradiance and the PSH Parameter:
One of the key metrics for assessing solar energy potential is Peak Sun Hours (PSH), representing the number of equivalent full sun hours per day. For instance, Tehran records a PSH of approximately 5.4 hours, indicating favorable conditions for photovoltaic (PV) installations. This figure is higher in southern provinces such as Kerman, Yazd, and Fars, while northern areas receive less solar radiation due to weather patterns.
Considerations in Solar System Design:
When designing solar energy systems, it is crucial to consider system efficiency and energy losses during the conversion process. Given that PV panel efficiency is below 100%, the generated energy must exceed the average daily consumption for effective utilization. Additionally, the diurnal variation in solar radiation—with peak levels at noon and lower levels in the morning and evening—must be factored into system and equipment design.
Top 10 Iranian Provinces with High Potential for Solar Power Plant Construction:
- Kerman:
With solar irradiance ranging from 5.5 to 6.2 kWh/m²/day, Kerman is among the top provinces for solar energy deployment. Its dry climate and clear skies make it highly suitable for large-scale solar projects. - Yazd:
Receiving 5.4 to 5.9 kWh/m²/day of solar radiation, Yazd enjoys abundant sunlight and extended sunny days, offering ideal conditions for solar energy development. - Sistan and Baluchestan:
As the province with the highest solar irradiance in Iran (5.8 to 6.3 kWh/m²/day), and a hot, dry climate, this region—particularly near the borders with Afghanistan and Pakistan—presents significant opportunities for solar power plants. - South Khorasan:
With 5.2 to 5.8 kWh/m²/day, this eastern province benefits from minimal humidity and clear skies, making it highly favorable for solar energy applications. - Fars:
Fars receives 5.2 to 5.7 kWh/m²/day of solar energy. Its vast, suitable land and favorable climate make it a strategic choice for solar plant construction. - Hormozgan:
Located in southern Iran’s tropical zone, Hormozgan benefits from 5.3 to 5.8 kWh/m²/day, positioning it well for large-scale solar installations. - Markazi (Central Province):
With an irradiance of 5.0 to 5.4 kWh/m²/day and long sunny periods, Markazi offers excellent potential for solar energy development. - Kermanshah:
This western province records 4.9 to 5.3 kWh/m²/day. Particularly in the west and southwest, semi-arid conditions support efficient solar energy generation. - Isfahan:
With 5.1 to 5.5 kWh/m²/day of solar radiation and vast land areas with clear skies, Isfahan is well-suited for the installation of solar power systems. - Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari:
Situated in central Iran, this province records 4.8 to 5.2 kWh/m²/day, especially in southern and western regions, and is becoming a promising candidate for solar power plant development.
Conclusion:
With high solar radiation across most of its territory, Iran holds significant potential for solar energy utilization. By analyzing solar irradiance and PSH values across the country, a clear map of prime locations for solar power plants can be drawn. This clean energy source can supply a large portion of the country’s energy needs and contribute to sustainable development and reduced environmental impact from fossil fuels. Ultimately, Iran has the opportunity to become a leading producer of renewable energy by leveraging its solar potential and meeting a substantial share of its energy demand through solar resources.
Sources:
The data used in this article is derived from the Global Solar Atlas, supported by the ESMAP program of the World Bank and developed by Solargis. It provides high-resolution data on solar resources and photovoltaic power potential across the globe.