Uncovering Ukraine’s potential for renewable energy
The maps show the entire territory of Ukraine. Solar energy potential is highest in the south of the country, with additional promising areas visible near several U_CAN pilot cities in the centre of Ukraine. Wind energy potential is generally good across most of the country, with particularly high potential in selected areas marked in dark green on the wind map.
Researchers from Igor Sikorsky Polytechnic Institute have conducted integrated research on potentials for wind and solar energy in Ukraine. Based on satellite data and advanced mathematical algorithms, the scientists created a detailed map of Ukraine displaying which locations are most suitable for power plants. The research results can be of great value to ensure energy security in the U_CAN pilot municipalities.
Nataliia Kussul and Sofiia Drozd, from the Department of mathematical modelling and data analysis and the National Technical University of Ukraine “Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute” have created the first assessment of Ukraine’s solar potential in cooperation with the Space Research Institute NASU-SSAU. The results include aspects such as climate factors, topography and land use. In consequence the scientists created a high-resolution land suitability map of solar power plants. According to the study, more than half (54.5%) of Ukraine’s territory is highly suitable for solar power stations, thereby providing a useful tool for decision-making on the optimal location of solar power facilities in Ukraine. ¹
In a further analysis, the researchers assessed the territory of Ukraine to identify the most suitable locations for productive wind farms using satellite data and GIS-based multi-criteria analysis. They found that almost half of Ukraine’s territory (47.79%) has moderate suitability for wind farms. The analysis combined satellite data with various criteria to identify suitable sites for wind energy production. High suitability for wind farms was identified across almost 90,000 km² (13.94%) of the country. The criteria included mean annual wind power, average daily hours with unsuitable wind speeds for wind turbines, temperature, humidity, slope, land use, distance to major roads and power lines, as well as safety considerations. ²
For the six U_CAN pilot municipalities, as well as for other areas, the suitability of locations for wind and solar power facilities can be analysed at high resolution. To explore the potential of other areas and cities, please use the interactive map of the U_CAN project.
¹ The study is available online: doi: 10.1109/igarss53475.2024.10642285
² The study is available online: DOI: 10.1109/DESSERT65323.2024.11122154
Find out more about the maps here: https://www.ucan-ukraine.eu/interactive-map-of-solar-power-station-placement
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