Introduction
Solar radiation is the basic source of energy for different processes taking place in the earth. For the efficient utilization of solar energy, it is necessary to know the spatial and temporal distributions of the amount and characteristics of solar energy received at a location. Majority of Nepalese and Tibetan people live in non electrified rural areas depending on expensive and inconvenient polluting energy resources such as wood, cattle dung, crop residues and kerosene oil. In this context cheaper and cleaner energy resources are required. Such demands could be made by developing expertise in renewable energy resources like solar energy and their development.
Solar Ultraviolet Radiation (UV) has a large impact on biological activity. UV has become a topic of increasing concern after the ozone depletion observed in 1970s. Since early 1990s, scientists have placed a large emphasis on monitoring UV. UV data are useful for detecting changes for radiation reaching the earth, assessing its biological effects and establishing a basic UV climatology. There is lacking of ground based UV data in Asia, particularly in Himalayan region. Ground based instruments are best for measuring UV at a location. However it requires accurate calibrations and standardization of observations.
Air quality and suspended particles in the atmosphere (Aerosol) are emerging issues in newly industrializing regions as they experience rapid population growth and urbanization. Increasing concern over degrading air quality in countries like Nepal arises from its health effects, visibility impairment, population transport and potential climate effects. The aerosols are particularly important in southern Asia in relation to monsoon meteorology and agriculture.
To monitor, study and analyze total solar radiation, solar UV, air quality and impacts of aerosols in solar radiation in the Himalayan region SAHR is established in 2007. It has a financial support from The Norwegian Program for Development, Research and Education (NUFU) for the period of 2007-2011.
SAHR aims to obtain information about spatial and temporal variation in solar radiation and aerosol composition and concentrations across the Himalayas. Seven radiation and one aerosol monitoring station will be established in various locations of Nepal and Tibet.
SAHR also aims to provide fellowship to three Ph.D. students working in the field of environment.
Contact Us
Solar Radiation & Aerosol in Himalayan Region
Institute of Engineering
Pulchowk Campus
Lalitpur, Nepal
Phone: (977)-1-5543072
Fax: (977)-1-5521985 / 5525830
(Attn: Solar Radiation Project)
Email: sraap@ioe.edu.np