A generalized procedure to generate clear-sky radiation data for any location

Accurate estimation of clear-sky radiation is needed in many engineering and architectural applications. In this study, data from four different locations with differing climatic conditions are used to evaluate two clear-sky radiation models referred to as the Page model and the Yang model. Statistical tests were used to determine their performance. The locations chosen were Aswan in Egypt, Jodhpur in India, Bahrain and Gerona in Spain. Using readily available meteorological data, both models produced good results above 400 W/m-super-2, although the Page model was found to perform better in dry climates and the Yang model in more humid locations. Selective use of one model over the other according to the prevailing climate thus produces an overall improvement in the data generated. It is suggested that investigations should be undertaken to further improve the models under discussion. Copyright The Author 2009. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oxfordjournals.org, Oxford University Press.