Acquisition and Analysis of Meteorological Data

Wind and solar radiation observations are required for renewable energy modeling and forecasting. High-quality ground measurements are essential for renewable energy studies. Ideal wind measurement devices should respond to slightest breezes, be strong enough to stand up high winds, give a fast and accurate answer for turbulent fluctuations, and have a linear output and a simple dynamic performance. The solar radiation reaching the earth’s surface contains several components, beam, diffuse, and reflected (albedo) radiation, as a consequence of the interaction with atmospheric particles. The instruments for measuring solar radiation are classified according to the working principle (mainly thermoelectric or photoelectric sensors) and to the component of solar radiation to be measured. Ground measurements give information about solar radiation or wind fields in a specific location. On the other hand, in many applications for the modeling and prediction of natural resources, meteorological data with a greater spatial distribution are needed. Satellite models offer meteorological data estimated from satellite images with a high spatial and temporary resolution. In the same way, Numerical Weather Predictions models give information about several meteorological variables with a great spatial resolution.