Assessment of the Impacts of Atmospheric Temperature and Pressure on Solar Irradiance in Idah, Kogi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the impacts of atmospheric temperature and pressure on solar irradiance in Idah, Kogi State, Nigeria. That data of atmospheric temperature and pressure were collected hourly from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm on February 25, 2026, in a school called Mathson School, Idah, using a weather station, while solar irradiance was measured using a pyranometer software installed on a laptop, and connected to the internet. The results revealed that the solar irradiance varied throughout the day, with peak values occurring in the early afternoon, which corresponds to higher temperatures and lower atmospheric pressures. The correlation analysis showed that there was a weak positive relationship between temperature and solar irradiance (r = 0.065) and a very weak negative relationship between pressure and solar irradiance (r = –0.036). This correlation despite the weak relationship shows that the solar irradiance is directly proportional with the atmospheric temperature and inversely with the atmospheric pressure. These findings demonstrate that atmospheric conditions have influence on solar irradiance and this provide insight into local solar energy potential. In addition, the results provide an insight regarding the period of time in which higher solar energy is expected in this research area, Idah, Kogi state. It was concluded that though, the correlation coefficients between the solar irradiance with the atmospheric temperature and pressure are low, there exists a relationship between solar irradiance and the two atmospheric parameters considered in this work. It is recommended that solar energy systems in Idah be designed to utilize peak solar irradiance periods between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. It is also recommended that data of many days or months be used for the similar work in future. Additionally, continuous monitoring of atmospheric parameters should be implemented for improved solar energy planning. This study is valuable as it will inform solar energy forecasting, optimize solar panel placement, and enhance energy output predictions, supporting effective deployment of solar energy systems in the region.