Bluesky Maps UK's Solar Energy Potential

COALVILLE, England, February 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Bluesky is rolling out nationwide coverage of its pioneering Solar Suitability Map. By mapping the potential for power generation using solar panels on roofs, the Solar Map is designed to identify optimum properties for solar power; helping achieve renewable energy targets and reduce soaring energy costs. Bluesky has seen a growing demand for its solar mapping amongst local authorities, utilities, housing associations and solar panel companies.

Bluesky's solar maps calculate the usable roof space of each property. By using detailed 3D aerial survey data and discarding features such as dormer windows, large skylights and chimneys, Bluesky's Solar Maps provide the only truly accurate indicator of the solar potential of individual roofs.

In addition to the nationwide coverage of solar potential Bluesky are

offering a service to create more detailed, bespoke 3D solar reports for individual complexes such as government buildings, schools, hospitals or commercial warehouses. All Bluesky Solar Maps can be linked to existing address databases or mapping to select and target the best properties for solar energy generation.

"Since launching the first solar maps last spring we have been inundated with enquiries from local authorities, solar panel companies as well as energy and environmental organisations," commented Rachel Tidmarsh, Managing Director of Bluesky. "As a result of these enquiries and our own ongoing research and development studies we have refined our processes and developed what is thought to be the most accurate methodology for determining the suitability of properties for solar energy installations, which is why we are now rolling the product out nationally."

A variety of techniques and datasets are used to accurately measure a roof's solar power potential such as a roof's usable size, height, pitch, aspect and shadowing obstructions. Bluesky then calculate a roof's insolation (a measure of solar radiation energy received on a given surface area in a given time) allowing the property to be graded for solar potential. The solar maps and databases can be supplied in various formats including Google kmz for use in Google Earth and 3D pdfs.

The earth receives from the sun more energy in one single hour than the whole world uses in an entire year, making the potential for solar energy generation huge. Local councils and housing associations are already considering how they can harness this untapped resource with panels on their houses and offices.

BLUESKY CONTACTS:

Website: http://www.bluesky-world.com