The GeoInformation Group, publishers of Cities Revealed and UKMap, are pleased to announce the release of Solar Energy Mapping, a brand new product that identifies buildings potentially suitable for solar panel installation. 

Using highly accurate 3D building information and mapping techniques buildings are identified and graded by the amount of sun they receive to determine their appropriateness for photovoltaic panel installation. This procedure considers each property’s roof height, position, size, location and any obstructions such as trees or other buildings that may impede sunlight. 

“As the power of the sun supplies us with both a usable and saleable energy commodity the UK is fast becoming an advocate in its use to reduce our carbon footprint and generate funds through Feed In Tarrifs”, comments Alun Jones, Managing Director of The GeoInformation Group. “We are extremely keen to encourage greater uptake of this alternative energy source by offering a quick and intuitive product that highlights all those properties best suited for solar power installation ”.

The mapping database measures solar insulation (direct and indirect solar radiation) in kW/m2 during a single day, over a period of time or spanning an entire year. The properties are colour coded in a GIS or as a database where each category is classified on the relative or absolute solar energy received by that building. 

An additional benefit is the option to link these data to an address or Ordnance Survey or UKMap database in order to easily locate and identity each building. 

Solar Energy Mapping can be utilised by a whole range of clients who wish to pinpoint the solar potential of residential, commercial and public buildings including Local Authorities, housing associations and utility companies.