UNESCO aides renewable energy development in Azerbaijan

UNESCO is involved in the development of solar and wind energy in Azerbaijan, according to the Presidium of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS).

The Institute of Geography has started research to increase the use of solar and wind energy. The research is conducted within the framework of the project "Quantitative assessment of solar and wind energy in Azerbaijan using GIS systems", which is supported by UNESCO.

Under the research, which will be carried out until the end of 2014, experts will assess the optical characteristics of the atmosphere, as well as compile a mathematical model of solar radiation. Moreover, a mathematical model of the effect of mountain topography on the amount of solar radiation and a wind map are under development. The scientists are conducting experiments in a selected mountain valley and analyzing statistical data in the framework of their research.

The State Agency on Alternative and Renewable Energy Sources, an agency operating under the Ministry of Industry and Energy, is responsible for the development of these types of energy in Azerbaijan.

Solar energy is alternative energy based on direct use of solar radiation to produce energy in any form. Solar power uses an inexhaustible source of energy and is environmentally friendly. Energy production using solar power stations complies with the concept of the distributed generation of power.

Wind power generation is the energy sector specializing in the conversion of kinetic energy of air masses in the atmosphere to electrical, mechanical, thermal or in any other form of energy that is convenient for use in the economy. Such a transformation can be implemented by using wind generators, windmills, sails, etc.

Adapted from TODAY.AZ