Solar Energy Potential

• This interactive world map displays the average daily global horizontal irradiation and the average daily photovoltaic power potential. 
• These factors are used to evaluate the potential effectiveness of solar energy in an area. 

Positives

• This map makes it easy for students to visually identify the areas that are best for producing electricity from solar energy.
• The map is simple and easy to navigate.
  

Additional Prerequisites

• The two factors, horizontal irradiance and photovoltaic power potential, are displayed on different layers.
• The map can be zoomed in to focus on a specific region.

Differentiation

• Students could use this map to determine the solar energy potential in their region or identify regions better suited for solar energy.
• Students could also use this map to make a plan for how we can best utilize land to maximize solar energy.
• Other interactive maps related to solar power include the Hourly Electric Grid Monitor, the Solar Energy Infrastructure and Resources Interactive Map, the Solar Power Generation map, and Share of Primary Energy from Solar map.
• Other resources that could be helpful in teaching solar energy include the article How Renewables Work: A Practical Guide to Solar, Wind, and Geothermal, the video Renewable Energy 101, and the virtual field trip activity Powering the Planet: Renewable Energy.