These terms of use (hereinafter “Terms of Use”) apply to the access to and use of all Vaisala operated websites (each website a “Site”), unless specifically stated otherwise in a given Site. Certain features of the Site may be subject to additional conditions.
BY ACCESSING THE SITE YOU AGREE TO THESE TERMS OF USE. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE WITH THESE TERMS OF USE, PLEASE DISCONTINUE USE OF THE SITE.
Vaisala reserves the right to alter these Terms of Use at its sole discretion at any time without notice.
Purposes and types of personal data Vaisala processes
Managing customer relationships; online store operations and the Site
Vaisala typically collects and processes personal data of the contact persons of Vaisala's customers, the Site visitors and the users of the online store. Personal data is collected directly from the customer’s contact person in connection with the customer requesting a quotation or placing an order for Vaisala’s products or services, from the use of the Site or directly from the customer’s contact person through the registration process to the online store.
Over the years, our scientific and engineering teams have continuously refined how this data is calculated, leading to major improvements in accuracy and modeling components.
In December 2023, we released version 2.0 of our solrad algorithms, introducing refined sunrise/sunset timing, enhanced atmospheric modeling, and additional performance upgrades.
What Our Solrad Dataset Includes
Our solrad dataset provides precise measurements that help users understand sun position and radiation intensity.ning.
Works using a regular smartphone mounted inside the vehicle 1
Captures HD footage uploaded directly to a secure cloud service 2
Processes data with computer vision and provides map-based results within hours
)
Why Solrad Data Matters
Solar radiation insights are essential across industries, especially for solar farms where the efficiency of panel orientation and tilt directly impacts energy production.
“We can now review the road network in less than a minute directly from our workplace, instead of spending hours driving.”
Key Measurement Types in the Solrad Response
Our weather API provides detailed solar radiation metrics through the conditions endpoint. Each measurement contributes to a clearer understanding of the sun’s behavior at a specific location.
Solar Azimuth Angle defines the sun’s position along the horizon, enabling accurate panel alignment. It is essential for optimizing directional orientation strategies used in solar farms.
Solar Zenith Angle measures the angle between the sun and the point directly overhead. Combined with azimuth, it allows precise determination of solar position throughout the day.
Global, Direct, and Diffuse Irradiance (GHI, DNI, DHI) indicate radiation from different paths. These values support applications in renewable energy design, hydrology, and atmospheric modeling by providing granular insight into sunlight distribution patterns.
What Makes Our Solrad Data Unique
Our solar radiation modeling benefits from the scientific expertise of the broader Vaisala group, delivering high-accuracy, hyperlocal results.
On-Road Data Collection
A smartphone is installed on the vehicle dashboard, continuously recording high-quality road footage during routine driving.
Automated Processing and Cloud Upload
Video files are uploaded to a secure cloud platform where computer vision analyses damages and classifies their severity.
Visual Map-Based Interface
Processed results are presented on a web map, allowing instant review without on-site validation.
Example request
Response
Using Solrad Data Across Industries
Our solar radiation dataset serves as a critical resource for a wide range of industries, supporting everything from clean energy production to environmental protection.
Solar Development
enables accurate site selection for solar installations
helps determine optimal panel orientation
supports long-term performance and efficiency modeling
Renewable Energy Forecasting
allows companies to estimate future energy output
improves planning for energy storage solutions
enhances integration with power grids
Environmental and Atmospheric Research
provides essential data for studying visibility conditions
supports air quality monitoring
contributes to climate impact analysis
Key Capability Areas
The RoadAI-supported workflow strengthened several critical aspects of infrastructure management:
Operational Efficiency
Field visits became optional rather than mandatory, cutting travel costs and freeing staff hours for higher-value tasks. Real-time access eliminated waiting periods between feedback, inspection, and decision-making.
Consistency and Objectivity
Computer vision ensures identical criteria for identifying and grading damages, reducing subjective variance. Standardized results also simplify collaboration and reporting between departments.
Preventive Asset Management
Early detection of micro-cracks and minor defects prevents costly future repairs caused by deterioration. Long-term planning became proactive instead of reactive, improving asset lifespan
Transparent Record Keeping
Stored historical video allows quick retrieval for investigations or liability cases. This supports fair, evidence-based decision-making and contract negotiations.
Solrad Data Applications Table
Application Area | Purpose | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
Solar Farm Design | Optimize panel tilt and position | Higher energy output |
Resource Planning | Assess irradiance for water or energy systems | Improved operational forecasting |
Safety & Monitoring | Track environmental radiation changes | Better risk management |
Resource Planning | Assess irradiance for water or energy systems | Improved operational forecasting |
Using Solrad Data
Our solrad dataset plays an essential role in many sectors, from energy production to environmental safety.
Solar Development: Accurate radiation data ensures efficient placement, orientation, and long-term performance modeling for solar infrastructure.
Renewable Resource Forecasting: Businesses can predict energy yield, optimize storage strategies, and improve grid integration.
Environmental & Atmospheric Research: Researchers rely on irradiance measurements to study visibility, air quality, and climate impacts.
Power your next innovation with Xweather
From predictive insights to live data streams — integrate Xweather into your apps, platforms, and products.