Solar insolation is the measure of solar radiation that hits a surface area in a given amount of time.  Solar insolation maps displays the amount of solar insolation of a given area.  Below I have linked a solar insolation map of the U.S.

They are used in many aspects of society for a variety of uses. In spacecraft design and planetology, it is the primary variable affecting equilibrium temperature. In construction, insolation is an important consideration when designing a building for a particular climate. In architecture, it can be used to design buildings that are cool in summer and warm in winter as well.