The intensity of the solar radiation at a given location depends on your latitude, terrain, season, time of day, and atmospheric conditions. For example, clouds, dust, and water vapor all affect the amount of radiation that reaches the surface at any given location.

The 3TIER solar dataset irradiance estimates do not directly account for local shades and shadows, such as those caused by trees or buildings. As a result, you need to take local conditions into account when interpreting estimates displayed by the Solar Prospecting Tools.