Mapping the incoming solar irradiance over Mauritius using time-series records of Satellite Application Facility on Climate Monitoring

Abstract : In its long-term energy strategy, the tropical island of Mauritius does not plan to fully exploit its abundant solar energy resources. Several barriers have been identified for curtailing the development of solar energy systems in the island. One of the major difficulties is that Mauritius is not equipped with a high quality radiometric network that would allow an accurate mapping of its solar resources. Moreover, the presence of microclimates all over the island implies that it is essential for the assessment to be performed at a small spatial resolution. This problem has been addressed in many countries by using satellite-based datasets as a feasible alternative to acquire site-specific solar irradiation time-series records. In this work, the monthly and annual average global solar irradiance maps for Mauritius have been devised using mean monthly data obtained from the EUMETSAT Satellite Application Facility on Climate Monitoring. The climatic data records not only span over a long period ranging from 1983 to 2005 but also have a small spatial resolution 0.03° × 0.03°. The maps reveal that average monthly solar irradiance of 300 W/m2 are obtained in the northern part of the country during peak summer. A south-north positive solar irradiance gradient is also observed along the island. In the absence of precise ground measurements, these maps provide a first insight into the solar potential of Mauritius and can support formulation of energy policy that will foster solar energy development.