Solar Engineering P3 Reference 2 min read Reviewed June 4, 2026

DHI (Diffuse Horizontal Irradiance)

DHI is the diffuse component of solar irradiance on a horizontal surface. Component of GHI alongside DNI.

Definition

Diffuse Horizontal Irradiance (DHI) is the diffuse component of solar irradiance on a horizontal surface, in W/m². Sum of DHI plus direct beam (projected onto horizontal) = GHI.

Key Takeaways

  • DHI = diffuse irradiance on horizontal surface.
  • GHI = DNI projected + DHI.
  • Higher DHI fraction in cloudy climates.
  • Standard hourly data source for PVsyst.
  • Critical for cloudy-climate solar yield modeling.

Frequently Asked Questions

2 commonly searched questions about DHI (Diffuse Horizontal Irradiance).

What is DHI?
Diffuse Horizontal Irradiance — scattered solar radiation on a horizontal surface. Component of GHI: GHI = DNI × cos(zenith) + DHI.
Where is DHI data found?
Meteonorm, NSRDB, Solargis publish hourly DHI alongside GHI and DNI for solar simulation.

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