In a significant advancement for renewable energy planning, researchers from the University of Tehran have harnessed cutting-edge methodologies to identify optimal sites for solar power plants in Kermanshah Province, Iran. This innovative approach combines Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) framework, setting a new standard for site selection processes in the energy sector.
The study, led by Iman Zandi from the Department of GIS, School of Surveying and Geospatial Engineering, introduces a groundbreaking group weighting method known as the Dempster-based Best-Worst Method (DBWM). This technique integrates insights from multiple experts to create a more nuanced understanding of site suitability. “Our model not only identifies the best locations for solar power development but also does so with a level of precision that previous methods have struggled to achieve,” Zandi explained.
The research highlights the importance of selecting appropriate spatial analysis techniques. The findings revealed that the Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) method outperformed other interpolation techniques, leading to a robust analysis of potential sites. The GIS-based DBWM-Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (GIS-based DBWM-TOPSIS) emerged as the most stable model, underscoring the critical role of slope in determining site viability. According to the study, only 3% of the area was classified as very low suitability, while a significant 31% was deemed very high suitability, indicating a promising landscape for solar energy development.
The implications of this research extend beyond academia, presenting substantial commercial opportunities for the energy sector. As countries strive to transition to cleaner energy sources, the ability to efficiently identify optimal locations for solar power plants can accelerate development timelines and reduce costs. Zandi emphasizes that “by applying these advanced techniques, we can facilitate quicker and more informed decisions that will ultimately lead to a more sustainable energy future.”
This research not only contributes to the academic discourse but also serves as a practical guide for policymakers and energy developers. With a growing global emphasis on renewable energy, the methodologies developed in this study could be replicated in various regions, paving the way for a broader adoption of solar power.
Published in ‘Scientific Reports’, this study underscores the transformative potential of integrating advanced analytical methods in renewable energy planning. As the world continues to grapple with climate change, innovations like these are vital for shaping a sustainable energy landscape.
