Topographic and Meteorological Challenges in Dissemination of Solar Technologies: An Overview of Leh, India

Leh was identified as a solar city by the Government of India in 2014. The location, altitude, and environmental condition of the city make it favorable for harnessing solar energy efficiently under ideal conditions. However, its topography and economic growth act as a hindrance to its successful transformation into a solar city. This study assesses the technical potential of rooftop areas and concentrated solar plants in Leh, under ideal conditions, using remotely sensed data and the ability of Geographic Information System. The technical potential of the solar systems was calculated considering the geographical potential area, meteorological indicators, and the efficiency of the plant modules. The findings suggest that the technical potential to generate electricity annually from SPVs in rooftops is 60 MWh and CSPs in the open wastelands is 16 MWh. This study also provides an insight into how topography and an uneven distribution of insolation should not hinder the Government and other stakeholders to invest in solar infrastructure in these cities.