Spatial Analyses of Reliability of Solar Power in the Western Part of Iraq

Abstract

Statistical and meteorological investigations were conducted on the western part of Iraq, represented by Anbar governorate. The region of study was divided into four parts according to the four geographical directions. The study included examining the physical and meteorological data of the region in order to find out the capability of the region for the solar power exploitation. Physical and meteorological variables showed a good trending agreement except for the diffuse horizontal irradiation and air temperature which exhibited inverse trends. Regions with elevated terrains such as the western and southern parts showed greater values of solar power gain. Statistical and meteorological data revealed promises indications of solar power feasibility for the selected region.