Residential Solar Energy Potential for Public Dissemination: a Case Study in Concepción, Chile

This paper presents a method for estimating the solar capture capacity of dwellings using the central urban area of Concepción, Chile, as a case study in order to promote self-generation of energy by residents. The method takes into account the growing domestic energy demand and the possibility of meeting this demand through integrated solar energy collection into buildings using different systems. The methodology considers a study of the potential incoming solar radiation on buildings according to their geographical location and the surrounding buildings. The capacity for solar capture is then estimated for different dwelling types according to their morphology. Subsequently, the energy contribution provided by different technologies (solar thermal, photovoltaic and hybrid) is identified in relation to the main average energy demands for electricity, water and space heating. Finally, systems for each dwelling are recommended in an urban map available online. The development is based on climate information, cartography, aerial photographs, surveys, housing models, technical standards, standardised calculations and dynamic simulations, implemented according to building layouts from an online Geographic Information System (GIS). The housing types are categorised in an urban map that relates household demands and the contribution of different solar energy systems. According to the estimates calculated, the residential units in the study offer sufficient solar capacity to supply between 40 and 60% of their energy consumption, especially in detached houses using roof-mounted hybrid systems.