Visualization of atmospheric and oceanographic data using globes and maps has a long history; from Ben Franklin's map of the North Atlantic to the latest WMS layer in NASA's WorldWind or Google Earth, visualizing data has applications across a wide spectrum of human endeavors. We report on our experience developing a Google maps mash-up for improving decisions for the fast growing renewable energy sector.

At firstlook.3tiergroup.com we deliver a tool for determining the annual mean values for both windspeed and solar irradiance. Windspeed values are based on in-house simulations using the Weather Research and Forecasting model. Solar irradiance estimates are based on an archive of geostationary satellite data, processed in-house to provide cloud estimates and then surface irradiance. This tool is an effective way to prospect for likely sites for renewable energy development. We share our experience in the development of this tool to stimulate ideas about what additional information might accelerate the adoption of renewable energy projects worldwide.