Investigating Solar Energy Potential in Afghanistan under Certain Climatic and Geometrical Parameters of Cities and Buildings

Year 2024, Volume: 16 Issue: 4, 179 - 194, 04.01.2025

Edris Naseri , Burcin Deda Altan , Afşin Güngör

https://doi.org/10.24107/ijeas.1564584

Abstract

Afghanistan faces significant challenges in meeting its growing energy demands, with the building sector consuming a substantial portion of its energy supply. The country increasingly turns to solar energy as a clean and sustainable alternative to address these challenges. While previous studies have explored solar energy potential in Afghanistan, there is a lack of comprehensive research focusing on building sector applications and the interplay of climatic and geometrical factors. This study aims to assess the potential of solar energy for the building sector in Afghanistan by examining the influence of climatic and geometrical factors. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify existing research and data on solar energy resources, building characteristics, and energy consumption patterns. The findings reveal that Afghanistan possesses substantial solar energy potential, particularly in the southwest and west regions. Building orientation, insulation, and shading are identified as crucial factors influencing solar energy performance. By exploring the suitability of various solar technologies, including solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, and solar lighting systems, this research contributes to the knowledge base on solar energy in Afghanistan. It provides insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to promote sustainable building practices.

Keywords

Afghanistan, solar asset, building energy, solar energy, climatic factors, geometrical parameters.

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