Research on Solar Irradiance Distribution and Correlation with Photovoltaic Generated Output: A Case Study of Wuhan and Zhangbei, China

The development of renewable energy is a crucial strategy for addressing global energy shortages and environmental pollution. Solar energy, noted for its cleanliness and renewability, has become a significant source of renewable energy. Studying the distribution of solar energy resources is essential due to the cyclical, fluctuating, and seasonal nature of solar irradiance. This paper examines the primary factors influencing solar irradiation, utilizing data on solar irradiance and photovoltaic output from Wuhan and Zhangbei, China, in 2022. The findings indicate that solar irradiance in China reaches its minimum during winter and peaks during summer. On sunny days, solar irradiance typically exhibits a single-peak trend, while on cloudy and rainy days, it shows greater volatility. Solar irradiance primarily consists of direct normal irradiance on sunny and partially cloudy days, and diffuse horizontal irradiance on overcast and rainy days. This study could provide a theoretical foundation for positioning photovoltaic power installations and for further predicting solar irradiance and photovoltaic power output in future research.