In a significant stride towards sustainable energy, recent research conducted by Abdelfetah Belaid from the Unit of Applied Research in Renewable Energies (URAER) at the Centre de Développement des Énergies Renouvelables (CDER) in Ghardaïa, Algeria, has unveiled promising opportunities for Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) in the region. Published in ‘IEEE Access’, the study employs advanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) along with Fuzzy Logic and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) techniques to identify optimal locations for CSP plants, an area that has largely remained underexplored in Algeria’s renewable energy landscape.
Algeria, heavily reliant on fossil fuels, faces mounting pressure to diversify its energy portfolio in light of climate change and resource depletion. The government has set ambitious goals to integrate more renewable energy into the national grid, and this study presents a compelling case for CSP, known for its ability to store thermal energy and provide a reliable electricity supply. “Our analysis shows that 10% of Ghardaïa’s land is suitable for CSP installations, with 1% identified as extremely suitable for large-scale projects,” Belaid remarked. This revelation could pave the way for substantial investments in CSP infrastructure, which not only supports energy diversification but also enhances energy security.
The research highlights that 33% of the land is suitable for small-scale CSP plants, with 3% deemed extremely suitable, indicating a robust potential for localized energy solutions. This could open doors for smaller enterprises and communities to engage in renewable energy production, fostering economic growth and job creation in the region. As Algeria seeks to transition to a more sustainable energy future, the findings from this study could serve as a blueprint for policymakers and investors alike.
Belaid’s work emphasizes the importance of utilizing innovative technologies to assess land suitability for renewable energy projects, showcasing how GIS and advanced decision-making frameworks can drive strategic planning. “The integration of these technologies allows us to make informed decisions that align with Algeria’s renewable energy objectives,” he added, reinforcing the necessity of a data-driven approach in the energy sector.
This research not only contributes to the academic discourse on renewable energy but also has practical implications for the commercial energy market in Algeria. By identifying suitable areas for CSP, it sets the stage for future developments and investments, potentially transforming the energy landscape in the country. As Algeria continues to pursue its renewable energy ambitions, the insights gained from this study could be pivotal in shaping the next generation of energy projects.
For more information on this groundbreaking research, you can visit Centre de Développement des Énergies Renouvelables.
