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Irradiance is a measure of the power of electromagnetic radiation per unit area, typically expressed in watts per square meter (W/m2). It is a fundamental concept in radiometry, the science of measuring radiation, and is used to quantify the amount of energy that is incident on a surface from a source of electromagnetic radiation. Irradiance is a scalar quantity, meaning it has magnitude but no direction, and is often used to describe the intensity of light or other forms of electromagnetic radiation.

In the context of solar energy, irradiance is a critical parameter for assessing the potential of a location for solar power generation. It is typically measured using pyranometers, which are instruments designed to measure the total solar irradiance on a horizontal surface. The irradiance can vary significantly depending on factors such as the time of day, season, weather conditions, and geographical location.

Irradiance is also relevant in other fields, such as astronomy, where it is used to describe the flux of radiation from celestial bodies, and in medical applications, where it is used to quantify the exposure of biological tissues to radiation. Understanding irradiance is essential for various applications, including solar energy systems, lighting design, and radiation safety protocols.