The Global Atlas is an online Geographic Information System (GIS) linked to a number of data centers located around the world. The online platform seeks to assist energy prospecting for renewable energy sites by providing easy access to accurate maps, and by creating a universal outlet for renewable resource map makers — saving companies, public institutions, universities, and national entities the trouble and cost of developing their own platforms and user bases.
As of 2014, more than 1,000 datasets are referenced by the catalog of the Global Atlas. All the information in the Catalog can be accessed directly from the Global Atlas GIS interface. The GIS interface enables users to visualize information on renewable energy resources, and to overlay additional information. These include, population density, topography, local infrastructure, land use and protected areas. The aim is to enable users to identify areas of interest for further prospection. The GIS interface will progressively integrate software and tools that will allow advanced energy or economic calculations for assessing the technical and economic potential of renewable energy.
Updated with new comprehensive data and features, Global Atlas 3.0 is designed with simplicity, contribution and collaboration in mind. The updated version unveils new user functionality and an upgraded interface that improves the user’s experience and fosters a map sharing community.