Solar energy potential and facilities of use in kahramanmaras province

Abstract

In order to prevent inaccurate investments, it is very important to perform studies which are based on the measurements of regional radiant intensity and sunshine duration before starting the construction of the plants or applications based upon the usage of solar energy which is a renewable energy source. In this study, solar energy potential of center and districts of Kahramanmaras which is a border city to two regions (Mediterranean Region and Southeastern Anatolia Region) that have the highest solar energy potential in our country, collected data by measurement station's pyranometers, has been discussed. It has been determined that city of Kahramanmaras has total annual 2918 hours of sunshine duration and 1608 kWh m(-2) radiant intensity. It has been concluded that from among districts, Pazarcik has the longest annual sunshine duration and Nurhak has the highest radiant intensity. It has been observed that high solar energy potential in city of Kahramanmaras is not being used sufficiently other than obtaining hot water.