GIS-Based Fuzzy-AHP Framework for Identifying Suitable Hubs for Offshore Wind and Clean Hydrogen Production
Karen F. Paula, Hayro A. P. Castilla, Mahdi Pourakbari‐Kasmaei, Fabian Heymann, D.M. Falcão, Joel D. Melo
Abstract
Integrating offshore wind power with clean hydrogen production in sustainable hubs offers a promising approach to enhancing the economic viability and sustainability of renewable energy projects. Such energy hubs are strategies to combine different infrastructures in specific regions, thus enabling synergies among them regions and make more efficient use of available resources. However, identifying suitable hubs requires a comprehensive evaluation of spatial, technical, financial, and environmental factors. This paper presents a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) framework to assist stakeholders in identifying the most suitable sustainable hubs. The fuzzy-AHP technique, which integrates fuzzy logic with AHP, is particularly effective in managing the subjective and imprecise nature of decision-making criteria. Applied to the Brazilian coastline, the framework highlights the northeast as the most favorable region for sustainable hydrogen production hubs, with techno-economic-environmental feasibility exceeding 73% of all analyzed locations. The southeast also shows strong potential, with techno-economic-environmental feasibility above 64%, largely due to its proximity to industrial centers and spatial characteristics, which result in reduced Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) values. These findings show the effectiveness of the GIS-based Fuzzy-AHP framework in providing a nuanced ranking of potential hubs. Thus, offering energy companies and policymakers a robust tool for planning and investing in offshore wind and clean hydrogen production. Furthermore, this tool supports global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable energy transitions.