Abstract

Estimating Rooftop Solar Electricity Potential in Seattle with LiDAR Data
Track: Renewable Energy
Authors: Ryan Liddell

Although its latitude and weather are not ideal for photovoltaic systems, generating solar electricity is both technically and economically feasible in Seattle. This research estimates the rooftop PV potential in Seattle using LiDAR data with a nominal pulse density of one pulse per m2. Rooftops are extracted from the LiDAR point cloud using LiDAR Analyst from Overwatch Geospatial. Rooftop size, aspect, slope, shading, and solar insolation are analyzed using ArcGIS. Our results are a raster dataset containing estimated annual PV output for extracted rooftops in the City. These data allow us to estimate the total rooftop solar electricity potential for the City or for smaller geographic areas. Quantifying the potential production of rooftop solar electricity enables utility planners to better understand how grid-connected photovoltaic systems could contribute to the energy future of Seattle, including meeting the Renewable Portfolio Standard for the state of Washington.