Streamlining

Streamlining PV Solar Panel Siting at

UNC Chapel Hill

Ellen CurrinTait Chandler

NCGIS2015G. Herbert Stout Student Award

Presentation

Objectives1. Simplify LiDAR data processing for automation

and possible replication

2. Create a tool that helps users identify suitable solar panel sites using customizable parameters

3. Build an online dashboard with open-source code that allows users to explore solar suitability in their own community

Why it is important» Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee

˃ Limited but large budget ˃ Increased interest in rooftop PV solar installation

» Growing field of geospatial analysis˃ NYC Solar Map

Why it is important» Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee

˃ Limited but large budget ˃ Increased interest in rooftop PV solar installation

» Growing field of geospatial analysis˃ Washington, DC

Why it is important» Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee

˃ Limited but large budget ˃ Increased interest in rooftop PV solar installation

» Growing field of geospatial analysis˃ San Francisco, CA

Methodology» Advancing previous methods

˃ Built off of Lyle Leitelt’s methodology (2010 Master’s Thesis, UNC DCRP)

˃ Leitelt created solar potential map for Town of Chapel Hill, NC

» Turned methods and calculations into tools˃ User-friendly˃ Adaptable to any community or institution˃ Open-source

1. Data processing» ArcGIS Model builder

1. Data processing» ArcGIS Model builder + Python automation

2. ArcMap Tool» ArcMAP Add-in Button

˃ Programmed using VB.net 2010 in Visual Studio

2. ArcMap Tool˃ Select all points meeting feasibility threshold˃ Generate individual building energy savings data

3. Interactive Map» JavaScript interactivity and data processing

˃ Allow users to set suitability parameters explore the solar potential on their campus

Open Source» VB.net tool requires ArcGIS; online map does not» Code for data processing and mapping on GitHub» Make your own!

Next Steps» Continue to work with RESPC

˃ Help them select feasible sites for rooftop solar development

» Publish interactive map to UNC˃ Collaborate with UNC Energy Services and Engineering Information

Services

» Publish research in the American Planning Association’s Planning Advisory Service Memo˃ Featured as a new and emerging planning practice

Questions?