Work

Differential teleconnections between solar radiation and atmospheric circulation at the global scale

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Atmospheric circulation shapes solar energy resources by regulating solar radiation variability. Currently, the relationship between photovoltaic resources and atmospheric circulation across different regions remains unclear. Here, we present a global classification of daily-scale solar-circulation teleconnections, directly linking atmospheric circulation to regional solar radiation variability. Analysis reveals marked regional contrasts: in Europe and India, photovoltaic resources respond mainly to local, surface-based weather systems, whereas in East Asia they are controlled by upper-tropospheric circulation located hundreds of kilometers away. Mechanistic diagnostics show that upper-level winds modulate cloud cover via vertical motion and moisture transport, exerting a remote influence on surface solar radiation. Based on this, a model incorporating circulation information is constructed. The results suggest that integrating such information can enhance prediction accuracy by 2%–8% across more than 70% of global land areas. These findings provide new insight into atmosphere-energy coupling, advancing understanding of climate impacts on sustainable energy systems.

Source: Communications Earth & Environment

DOI: 10.1038/s43247-026-03605-w