Estimation of Rooftop Solar Power Potential by Comparing Solar Radiation Data and Remote Sensing Data—A Case Study in Aichi, Japan

There have been significant advances in the shift from fossil-based energy systems to renewable energies recent years. Decentralized solar photovoltaic (PV) is one of most promising sources because availability rooftop areas, ease installation, and reduced cost PV panels. The current modeling method using remote sensing data based on a geographic information system (GIS) objective accurate, but analysis processes are complicated time-consuming. In this study, we developed estimate power potential over wide area globally available radiation Solargis combined with building polygon. Our study also utilized light detection ranging (LiDAR) AW3D western Aichi, Japan, was calculated GIS. estimation LiDAR took into account slope azimuth rooftops. A regression estimated for each roof between three methods conducted, conversion factor 0.837 obtained improve accuracy results data. annual 3,351,960 buildings Aichi Prefecture under Scenario A, B, C 6.92 × 107, 3.58 1.27 107 MWh/year, after adjustment. could satisfy total residential demand revealing crucial role alleviating crisis. This approach combining polygons can be easily applied other parts world. These findings provide useful policymakers contribute local planning cleaner energy.