Assessing the Potential Use of Solar Energy Source in Urban Areas Located in Natural Protected Sites

The main aim of this paper is to present an easy to use methodology for assessing the potential amount of electricity or thermal energy production in urban areas located in natural protected sites. The methodology is based on two different steps: a territorial analysis for the evaluation of solar radiation and usable surfaces for photovoltaic or solar thermal plant, and a plant analysis for highlighting those photovoltaic and solar thermal technologies which installation will not generate significant impacts in areas characterized by high environmental and landscaping value. The methodology was successfully applied in two case studies inside two different Italian natural protected areas. The obtained results were provided to local administrations and communities as a useful tool for sustainable energy planning.