International. A study by professors at the University of Seville in Spain explains how satellite imagery can improve the energy efficiency of cities.
At present, images from satellites orbiting the Earth allow a large amount of information to be obtained. You just have to know what the right combination of the spectrum bands provided by the sensor is and take into account the influence of weather on the reliability of the data extracted from each pixel. Thus, you can obtain the necessary algorithms to study what you want. For example, data on the energy performance of a building can be obtained using satellite imagery.
Based on the variables obtained through free access platforms of NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA), a series of zonal models have been developed to obtain the temperature of the building and its primary and total energy. Then, through the analysis of large amounts of data (big data), sustainability parameters of the urban area can be achieved. For example, the green area surface and the relationship between it and the built area.
One of the characteristics of models based on the digital processing of images taken by satellite is that they are based on the analysis of big data at the macroscale level (for example, a city or neighborhood). Subsequently, through the use of zonal variables such as built area, green surface, temperature and precipitation, results are obtained at microscale level (e.g. a building). The benefits of this new technology, which has been successfully tested in the Italian city of Bari, range from the ease of obtaining data anywhere in the world and the economic savings in the data collection process to the speed of the process and the accuracy of the data and the results obtained.
A green solution for energy efficiency
As a result of the globalized world in which we live, the sustainable development of cities and neighborhoods depends on the green area per inhabitant. Other parameters that influence overall energy efficiency are the use of bicycles, public transport and the pedestrianization of streets and avenues.
That is why it is important to note that this system allows you to manage large work areas without negatively affecting the environment. In addition, the use of satellites makes it possible to analyze those areas in which it is necessary to implement action plans by local authorities. In this way, it will be possible to increase green areas and minimize the energy needs of the city, reducing the expenditure of its inhabitants.
Data Source Provider: University of Seville.
