In the quest for sustainable fuel production, researchers have developed a groundbreaking methodology that could revolutionize the way we site Biomass-to-X (BtX), Power-to-X (PtX), and hybrid (e-/PBtX) facilities. Led by Marcel Dossow from the Technical University of Munich’s Chair of Energy Systems, the study leverages Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) to pinpoint optimal locations for these critical infrastructure projects.
The methodology, dubbed CES-GIS-SAFAHP, integrates geospatial data with a Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) to evaluate location suitability systematically. This approach not only provides a quantitative framework but also offers valuable insights for spatial decision-making in sustainable fuel production. By combining weighted overlays and exclusion analysis, the methodology generates suitability maps that identify the most promising sites for plant locations.
Dossow explains, “Our approach offers a robust, quantitative framework for spatial optimization in the siting of sustainable fuel production facilities.” This framework is particularly significant for policy-makers, industry leaders, and researchers involved in scaling up BtX, PtX, and e-/PBtX technologies.
The methodology encompasses a comprehensive suitability analysis, providing a recommended list of suitability and exclusion criteria. These criteria are categorized into ‘requisite,’ ‘infrastructure,’ and ‘environmental’ factors, tailored specifically for sustainable fuel production site selection. The structured workflow derived from GIS-based FAHP with exclusion analysis ensures that users can easily apply the methodology in various geographic and project contexts.
The practical implications of this research are vast. By optimizing the siting of sustainable fuel production facilities, energy companies can reduce operational costs, enhance efficiency, and minimize environmental impact. This could lead to a more sustainable and economically viable energy sector, driving forward the transition to renewable energy sources.
“Our approach provides a practical, replicable algorithm that can guide users through the process, making it easier to apply in various geographic and project contexts,” Dossow adds. This algorithm is a game-changer, offering a clear roadmap for stakeholders to navigate the complexities of sustainable fuel production site selection.
Published in MethodsX, this study is a significant step forward in the field of sustainable energy production. The methodology’s ability to integrate complex data sets and provide actionable insights positions it as a valuable tool for the energy sector. As the demand for sustainable fuels continues to grow, the CES-GIS-SAFAHP methodology could shape future developments, guiding the strategic siting of facilities and accelerating the transition to a greener energy landscape.
