A fuzzy goal programming with interval target model and its application to the decision problem of renewable energy planning

Abstract

Optimizing sustainable renewable energy portfolios is one of the most complicated decision making problems in energy policy planning. This process involves meeting the decision maker’s preferences, which can be uncertain, while considering several conflicting criteria, such as environmental, societal, and economic impact. In this paper, rather than using existing techniques, a novel multi-objective decision making (MODM) model, named fuzzy goal programming with interval target (FGP-IT), is proposed and constructed based on recent developments and concepts in fuzzy goal programming (FGP) and revised multi-choice goal programming (RMCGP). The model deals with decision making problems involving a high level of uncertainty by offering decision makers a more flexible way to formulate and express their preferences, namely, fuzzy interval target goals. The proposed method is used to optimize a hypothetical sustainable wind energy portfolio in Algeria. The results show that the FGP-IT model is capable of assisting decision makers with uncertain preferences in making such complicated decisions.