Maps of solar potential, created by Bluesky, have been rigorously compared with more traditional site survey data. The field testing, undertaken by solar panel specialists Sunbright Solar in the UK, compared Bluesky’s solar mapping with site surveys on properties that had already had solar panels installed. The ground truth project concluded the Bluesky data provided accurate and easy to use information which helped to identify properties most suitable for solar panels. It was also possible to define the number and type of panels that could be installed and the Bluesky data could be used to help market the solar panel offering to the home owner.
“The data provided by Bluesky compared excellently with our own on site surveys,” commented Simon Allen, Managing Director of Sunbright Solar. “We were able to compare roof pitch, size, orientation and shading and in all aspects the Bluesky data matched with what we measured on site. By using Bluesky data we can reduce the number of costly site surveys and more effectively and accurately market our services.”
Sunbright Solar are solar panel specialists offering a complete service encompassing design, supply and installation of photovoltaic solutions throughout the Midlands. Committed to providing excellent customer service and installing top-quality solar products Sunbright Solar can help deliver clean, money-saving energy. Sunbright Solar approached Bluesky to investigate the potential use of solar mapping in the marketing and pre planning of their service. Bluesky worked closely with the company on the ground truth project delivering solar maps of properties that Sunbright Solar had already completed work on as well as potential properties in the vicinity.
“We were particularly impressed we could customise the data to be compatible with the panels we supply and the calculations were based on our actual costs,” continued Allen. “The fact we could filter out rooftops that were not suitable made reading the data very easy as every rooftop Bluesky sent us we knew would be suitable.”
“Being able to have this wealth of accurate data to hand when quoting on potential work and being able to show customers images of their roof with solar panels laid out will give us an edge on our competitors.”
Bluesky has a unique method of generating solar potential maps using photogrammetric techniques to accurately measure and record factors that may contribute to the suitability for solar power. Bluesky calculates the energy potential using high resolution aerial photography combined with 3D data to determine the size, aspect and gradient of individual properties. The suitability of each roof element is then considered taking into account roof shape and other impediments such as sky lights or dormer windows, as well as potential obstructions such as neighbouring properties or trees. Bluesky can also provide measurements for other environmental energy projects such as wind turbines, micro hydro and heat pumps.
