PV energy potential in Nepal Himalayas: analytical study on seasonal and spatial variation of solar irradiance for PV

Photovoltaic (PV) technology and knowledge on solar energy (irradiance) distribution in space and time are complimentary to achieve optimum efficiency to generate electricity from overall PV system. To address the latter, this paper reports analytical results on seasonal (monthly) and spatial variation of solar irradiance and consequent PV energy potential in Nepal Himalayas based on two-hourly solar irradiance data from 1987 to 1994. Results show significant similarities and differences on solar irradiance and hence PV energy potential with respect to seasons and locations.