Application of multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) model for solar plant location selection
Sahand Hosouli, Rania Asma Hassani
Abstract
This study aims to systematically evaluate and identify the most suitable locations for establishing solar farms in the United Kingdom. It employs a comprehensive Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) model that incorporates the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) method. Eight potential locations have been identified and selected for their climatic conditions and other pertinent parameters. These potential locations underwent additional assessment considering several factors including temperature, annual hours of sunshine, absolute humidity, proximity to major roads, distance from the power network, and potential demand. The data was normalized to eliminate scale effects and improve comparability. A MATLAB program has been developed with universality and user-friendliness in mind. Its purpose is to establish location selection factors graphs according to application-specific criteria and generate the matrix representation of these graphs for each potential candidate location. The permanent matrix, a composite metric synthesizing six criteria, identifies Torquay as the optimal location with a permanent value of 18.16. This quantitative approach, intersected with qualitative assessments, presents a clear hierarchy of site suitability. The model's simplicity, scalability, and proven accuracy make it a valuable tool for assessing renewable energy project viability in diverse regions. • Using Graph Theory and Matrix-based MCDM, Torquay was identified as the best site for a solar farm in the UK. • A versatile MATLAB tool, using MCDM, simplifies selecting potential locations based on any set of criteria for any location. • The proposed method is adaptable and can extend to identifying wind farm sites or selecting systems for solar installations. • This innovative MCDM approach is also applicable in selecting insulation materials and optimizing passive building designs.