Google-Scientists from Kyushu University use convolutional neural networks and remote sensing to assess the impact of PV installations on land surface temperature (LST) in the Kushida River Basin, Japan.
-Covering an area of 767.62 km2, the study examines PV distribution, surface temperature changes, and spatial factors influencing temperature alterations over 10 years.
-The research reveals an average increase of 2.85°C in LST around PV installations built from 2013 to 2023, with more pronounced effects in warmer months.
-Factors such as elevation, building density, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), PV area, and distance to waterways show significant correlation with LST differences, with elevation having the most significant effect.
-The study, published in “Environmental and Sustainability Indicators,” highlights the importance of considering geographical characteristics and green cover in mitigating the impact of PV installations on LST.
Read the full article on Pv Magazine