Analysing the Spatio-Temporal Variations of Urban Street Summer Solar Radiation through Historical Street View Images: A Case Study of Shanghai, China

Abstract

Understanding solar radiation in urban street spaces is crucial for comprehending residents’ environmental experiences and enhancing their quality of life. However, existing studies rarely focus on the patterns of urban street solar radiation over time and across different urban and suburban areas. In this study, street view images from the summers of 2013 and 2019 in Shanghai were used to calculate solar radiation in urban street spaces. The results show a general decrease in street solar radiation in 2019 compared to 2013, with an average drop of 12.34%. The decrease was most significant in October (13.47%) and least in May (11.71%). In terms of solar radiation data gathered from street view sampling points, 76.57% showed a decrease, while 23.43% showed an increase. Spatially, solar radiation decreased by 79.66% for every additional 1.5 km from the city centre. In summary, solar radiation generally shows a decreasing trend, with significant variations between different areas. These findings are vitally important for guiding urban planning, optimising green infrastructure, and enhancing the urban ecological environment, further promoting sustainable urban development and improving residents’ quality of life.