An analysis of climatic parameters and sky condition classification

In modelling solar radiation, of the required data daylight illuminance, luminous efficacy, radiance and luminance sky distributions, are always analysed under various sky types. Sky conditions are frequently categorised into overcast, partly cloudy and clear using some common climatic data including cloud cover (CLD), sunshine hour (SH) and solar radiation. This paper presents the study of these climatic parameters and their applications in the classification of sky condition. Frequency of occurrence and cumulative frequency distribution of each sky indicator have been established to interpret the prevailing sky conditions in Hong Kong. Special features on defining the sky clearness are highlighted and the implications for energy-efficient building designs are discussed. © 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.