A model developed at the University of Tomsk, Russia, for high latitudes (over 55° N) is proposed and applied to the analysis and observation of the solar resource in the state of Sonora in the northwest of Mexico. This model utilizes satellite data and geographical coordinates as inputs. The objective of this research work is to provide a low-cost and reliable alternative to field meteorological stations and also to obtain a wide illustration of the distribution of solar power in the state to visualize opportunities for sustainable energy production and reduce its carbon footprint. The model is compared against real-time data from meteorological stations and satellite data, using statistical methods to scrutinize its accuracy at local latitudes (26–32° N), where a satisfactory performance was observed. An annual geographical view of available solar radiation against maximum and minimum temperatures for all the state municipalities is provided to identify the photovoltaic electricity generation potential. The outcomes are proof that the model is economically viable and could be employed by local governments to plan solar harvesting strategies. The results are generated from an open source model that allows calculating the available solar radiation over specific land areas, and the application potential for future planning of solar energy projects is evident.

The estimation of the solar resource on certain surfaces of the planet is a key factor in deciding where to establish solar energy collection systems. This research uses a mathematical model based on easy-access geographic and meteorological information to calculate total solar radiation at ground surface. This information is used to create a GIS analysis of the State of Nuevo León in Mexico and identify solar energy opportunities in the territory. The analyzed area was divided into a grid and the coordinates of each corner are used to feed the mathematical model. The obtained results were validated with statistical analyses and satellite-based estimations from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The applied approach and the results may be replicated to estimate solar radiation in other regions of the planet without requiring readings from on-site meteorological stations and therefore reducing the cost of decision-making regarding where to place the solar energy collection equipment.

This paper proposes the computation and assessment of optimal tilt and azimuth angles for a receiving surface, using a mathematical model developed at the University of Tomsk, Russia. The model was validated and analyzed for the Nuevo León State, Northeast Mexico, utilizing a set of metrics, comparing against satellite data from NASA. A point of interest in the city of Monterrey was analyzed to identify orientation patterns throughout the year for an optimal solar energy gathering. The aim is providing the best orientation tilt angles for photovoltaic or solar thermal panels without tracking systems. In addition, this analysis is proposed as a tool to achieve optimal performance in sustainable urban development in the region. Based on the findings, a set of optimal tilt and azimuth surface angles are proposed for the analyzed coordinates. The aim is to identify the optimal performance to obtain the maximum solar irradiation possible over the year for solar projects in the region. The results show that the model can be used as a tool to accelerate decision making in the design of solar harvesting surfaces and allows the design of discrete tracking systems with an increase in solar energy harvesting above 5% annually.